AI Voice Note on WhatsApp: 72 year-old Hyderabadi loses Rs 1.97 lakh

Hyderabad: A 72-year-old housewife from Hyderabad received a WhatsApp message from her sister-in-law's mobile number, who resides in New Jersey, USA.

The message requested an amount to confirm, the victim called her sister-in-law, and in response, she heard a voice saying "YES" (Maybe AI voice).

Believing it to be genuine, the victim transferred Rs 1.97 lakh via Google Pay.

Later, the victim realized that it was a fraudulent request and subsequently filed a complaint to recover her money. This is one of the many cases being reported in Hyderabad.

Several Hyderabad residents have fallen victim to a WhatsApp scam where fraudsters gain access to accounts through OTP verification and then send money requests to contacts. The incidents have raised concerns over digital security and the importance of two-step verification.

How the scam works

Victims would report receiving an OTP request from a known contact number. Believing it to be genuine, they share the code, only to find themselves locked out of their WhatsApp accounts.

Hackers then use the compromised accounts to send urgent money requests to friends and family. A Hyderabad resident, whose father was targeted, shared, “The hacker used my uncle’s number to send an OTP request to my father. He shared it, thinking it was a genuine request. Within minutes, he was locked out, and money requests were sent from his account.

Multiple victims report similar incidents

Several Hyderabad residents have reported similar cases in recent weeks. Another victim said, “I got a message from my friend’s number saying he was in trouble and needed an OTP. I sent it without thinking. A few minutes later, I realised I had lost access to my WhatsApp.” In some cases, unsuspecting contacts have transferred money, believing the requests to be genuine.

Always verify through a direct call with the sender

Cybercrime officials confirm a rise in such cases and urge users to be cautious. “These scams are increasing. If you receive an OTP without requesting it, ignore it.

"Always verify it through a direct call,” said RG Siva Maruthi, assistant commissioner of police, speaking to NewsMeter.

“Hackers exploit trust by hijacking contacts’ numbers. Never share OTPs and enable two-step verification on WhatsApp,” Maruthi added.

Here’s what experts advise on what to do if your WhatsApp is hacked:

• Do not share OTPs even if the request appears to come from someone you know.
• Enable two-step verification on WhatsApp to prevent unauthorised access.
• Inform your contacts immediately if your account is compromised.
• Report the incident to WhatsApp and the cybercrime department.-
• Block your SIM and get a new one if needed.

Authorities urge residents to stay vigilant and educate family members about such scams, especially elderly individuals who may be more vulnerable.

Public Advisory:

• Fraudsters are using AI-generated voice technology to impersonate family members and request money through WhatsApp messages and calls.
• Don't respond to unknown or suspicious calls on WhatsApp, and don't share a WhatsApp verification code with anyone.
• Turn on two-factor authentication (2FA) for your WhatsApp account. If you receive a suspicious message or call, ask for a money transfer report and block the number.
• Always call the person directly at a known number before sending any money. Scammers create urgency and pressure victims into making quick payments.
• If a call sounds unnatural or only has short, robotic responses, be suspicious.
• Fraudsters may send fake links that compromise your security. Someone you don't know, don’t open it.
• If you think your account has been compromised, contact WhatsApp support immediately. If you think your account has been compromised, let your contacts know.
• If you suspect fraud, report it to local authorities and your bank immediately.
• Victims of cyber-crime *fraud dial 1930 or visit www.Cybercrime.gov.in.* In case of any emergency of cyber frauds *call or WhatsApp 8712665171.
• For more awareness about cyber fraud, please follow us on our social media platforms and to get day-to-day updates.