Should I open a WhatsApp message from a stranger?
You can read it, but don’t tap links, open files or reply. If you don’t know them, block and report the number.
About a 1-minute read · Last checked Nov 10, 20263 steps. Tick them off as you go.
What to watch for
Hi Jessica, is this still your number?
Oh sorry, wrong number! You seem really nice though.
I work from home and make $300 a day. Want me to show you? Message me on Telegram
- 1A “wrong number” opener
- 2Friendly chat right after the mistake
- 3Easy money or a job you didn’t apply for
- 4Asks you to move to another app
Other signs: links or files, a rush to act, requests for money, gift cards or crypto, and anyone who asks for photos.
Want to know more?
Is just opening the message dangerous?
Reading a text message is very low risk on a phone that’s up to date. The danger is in what you do next: tapping links, opening files or replying. Keep your phone and WhatsApp updated so security fixes are installed.
Why do strangers message me at all?
Scammers send huge numbers of messages to random numbers, or buy lists of numbers. A message doesn’t mean someone knows you or targeted you personally.
I already replied or tapped a link. What now?
Stop replying and don’t send anything else. If you typed a password after tapping a link, change that password right away. Turn on two-step verification in WhatsApp (Settings, then Account, then Two-step verification), then block and report the number.
What if it’s someone I actually know on a new number?
Check with them another way, like calling their old number or asking a friend you both know. Scammers often pretend to be family who “lost their phone.”
Know someone who should see this?
Text it to your mom, your sister or your best friend.