WARNING: Fake "WhatsApp Gold" Messages Are Circulating Again
Message from Devon & Cornwall Police via Neighbourhood Alert.
Messages promoting a supposed premium service called "WhatsApp Gold" are circulating once more.
WhatsApp Gold is a scam. There is no official "WhatsApp Gold" version offered by WhatsApp or its parent company Meta.
These messages are designed to trick people into downloading harmful software, revealing personal information, or compromising their device.
How to Spot a Fake WhatsApp Gold Message
Be cautious if a message:
• Claims you have been selected for an exclusive, VIP, premium or celebrity version of WhatsApp.
• Promises special features not available in the official app.
• Contains a link to download software from a website rather than the Google Play Store or Apple App Store.
• Creates urgency, such as "Download now before it is withdrawn" or "Invitation only".
• Contains poor spelling, unusual wording, or asks you to forward the message to others.
• Mentions a so-called "Martinelli" video, a long-running hoax often associated with WhatsApp Gold messages.
What To Do
Do not click any links.
Do not download anything.
Do not forward the message.
Delete the message.
Block and report the sender using WhatsApp's reporting feature.
Warn friends or family members who may also have received it.
Stay Safe
Only download WhatsApp from the Google Play Store, Apple App Store, or the official WhatsApp website.
Never click links promoting WhatsApp Gold, WhatsApp Plus, or other unofficial versions.
Never share passwords, PINs, banking details, or verification codes.
Enable Two-Step Verification within WhatsApp settings.
Report and block suspicious senders.
Remember: If an offer sounds exclusive, secret, or too good to be true, it probably is.
If You Receive any Suspicious Message
Forward suspicious emails to report@phishing.gov.uk and then delete them.
Forward suspicious text messages free of charge to 7726 (spells "SPAM" on your keypad) and then delete them.
If you are the victim of Fraud or Cybercrime
Report online here: UK's Home for Reporting Cyber Crime & Fraud - Report Fraud https://www.reportfraud.police.uk/
Or call: 0300 123 2040
To quickly contact your bank dial 159
Please share this advice with friends, family, and colleagues to help keep Devon & Cornwall safe online.
