In recent months, mobile cybersecurity notices have grown significantly due to the increase in scams and attacks affecting smartphone users in Spain. Cybercriminals take advantage of both Messaging apps like WhatsApp Such as the misuse of Wi-Fi networks to obtain personal information and commit fraud. These types of attacks not only put money at risk, but also privacy and the most sensitive data stored on devices.
In view of the emergence of new forms of fraud, both banking institutions and security forces have intensified their urgent notices to the populationThe objective is clear: prevent more people from becoming victims of deceptions that are often difficult to detect due to the convincing nature of the messages and the use of emotional or urgent situations.
Dangerous WhatsApp scam involving son: new impersonation tactic
One of the scams that has gained ground in recent days is known as the "WhatsApp scam of son"The mechanism is simple but effective: the criminals contact the alleged victim using an unknown number, saying they are their son or daughter and that they have lost their cell phone. From there, with a very familiar and natural language, they request money urgently to deal with a fictitious situation such as a fine, breakdown or debt.
These messages usually come loaded with emotionality and haste, with phrases that appeal to parents' concerns. They use everyday expressions, abbreviations, and even emojis to simulate young people's speech, causing many adults to let their guard down and end up sending a transfer that ultimately ends up in the hands of scammers.
Banco Santander itself, among other banking entities, has issued alert messages through its applications warning that No economic action should be taken without verifying the real identity The applicant can be contacted by calling the usual number. This warning has been reinforced by the National Police, which recommends always being wary of unexpected communications and not sharing personal or banking information without first verifying the situation.
To reduce risks, it is recommended Do not publicly post family information or phone numbers on social media, as well as agreeing on a code word or verification measure with your children for these situations. In addition, activating the two-step verification on WhatsApp and limiting the visibility of your profile picture and last seen helps make it harder for scammers to work.
Risks of using Wi-Fi from your mobile phone outside the home
Another growing threat to the mobile cybersecurity It is the careless use of public or open Wi-Fi networks. Users often leave the Wi-Fi option enabled on their mobile phones for convenience, which can be a gateway for hackers and cybercriminalsThese individuals can exploit, for example, a public network at an airport, coffee shop, or shopping mall to intercept data traffic and even take control of connected devices.
Computer security agencies, such as the German agency BSI and infosec experts, warn that The risk is high on both Android and iOS devicesAttackers can introduce malware, spy on communications, collect personal information, and even access sensitive data such as banking or social media credentials.
The temptation to connect to free networks is often understandable, but doing so without protection can end in disasterIn many cases, hackers manipulate these networks to install spyware or ransomware on victim devices, accessing browsing data, applications used, or even the user's contacts and location.
Recommended measures to strengthen mobile security
Given this situation, it is advisable to adopt a series of protective habits and measures:
- Always be wary of messages requesting money from unknown numbers., even if they look like family.
- Call the usual number before making any transfers or providing information.
- Do not share personal information or phone numbers on social media.
- Activate the two-step verification on WhatsApp and check your account privacy.
- Avoid using public WiFi networks or open outside the home, especially for confidential transactions.
- Set your phone to not automatically connect to any available network and use automation tools like IFTTT on Android or Shortcuts on iPhone to manage it efficiently.
If you receive a suspicious message or have been a victim of a scam, it is important contact the bank as soon as possible to try to cancel the transfer and collect evidence such as screenshots to report it to the National Police or Civil Guard.
