It is alleged that a database containing up-to-date mobile phone numbers of approximately 500 million WhatsApp users has been leaked and put up for sale. Kaspersky GReAT Chief Security Researcher Victor Chebyshev warned of potential threats.
Kaspersky GReAT Chief Security Researcher Victor Chebyshev warns people of potential cyber threats that victims may face, such as doxing, cyberbullying, blackmail and extortion. Privacy risks are another important consideration. For a cybercriminal, having a potential victim's phone number significantly increases the likelihood of a successful attack, as most online services require entering a phone number along with other personal data: such as name, email address, and sometimes card information. .
Kaspersky gives users the following advice to stay safe:
Hide your data from everyone except those in your contact list in WhatsApp privacy settings.
Be careful and watch out for calls and messages from unknown numbers.
Enable two-factor authentication if it's not already enabled so scammers can't use your number for malicious purposes.
Never open any suspicious links posted by anyone, as there may be malicious files attached or they may directly redirect you to fraudulent content.
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