Cyber Fraudsters Exploit Call Forwarding, QR Codes, WhatsApp Rentals: New Tactics Emerge

• Cyber fraudsters are shifting from traditional scams to exploiting common phone features and social platforms like call forwarding, QR codes, and WhatsApp rentals.
• The call forwarding scam tricks victims into dialling USSD codes (e.g., *72, *401#) to 'fix' issues, redirecting all incoming calls, including OTPs, to the scammer.
• WhatsApp 'rental' scams lure users with passive income offers, asking them to scan QR codes or link devices, giving fraudsters remote access to their accounts for illicit activities.
• Victims of WhatsApp rental scams risk legal and financial fallout, as their accounts are used for fraud, potentially leading to investigations and identity compromise.
• Protection involves never dialling unknown USSD codes, regularly checking call settings, enabling two-factor authentication, and resisting urgent requests to verify information.

Why It Matters: New cyber scams exploit everyday phone features and social media, making digital safety about understanding ordinary actions.