The first thing they can do is download malware on your device based on a link you clicked and ask for money to take the malware off. Once you send over your personal pictures, the scammer can do one of two things. They then ask you to send them naughty pictures in exchange for theirs. These types of Google Hangout scams tend to start on other platforms but move to a messaging app to avoid being banned. In these scams, someone you met on a dating site entices you to move the conversation over to Google Hangouts or WhatsApp. The check is also fake, meaning you gave all the money back to the scammer for supplies you aren’t giving and now you’re responsible for paying the bank back for the fraudulent funds. They mail you a check within a week or two and tell you to get a computer, desk, chair, office supplies, and other stuff from certain websites that are usually fake. Instead, they instant message you about the position making you wonder why they couldn’t do it over a phone or video call like most places do.Īfter the interview, they tell you that you got the job and give you a little over $1,000 to get the supplies you need. They tell you to go onto Google Hangouts or WhatsApp for the interview, so you do so thinking they are going to video chat with you. In these scams, A so-called work-from-home company tells you that they would like to interview you about the position you applied for. Job scams are a common type of Google Hangout Scams. Types of Google Hangouts and WhatsApp Scams to Be Aware Of A reverse image search can tell you who is really in the photos. Run a reverse image search on the person’s photos to tell if you are talking to a scammer running a fake account. However, the scammer is actually lying to drain these victims’ bank accounts. The victims believe in these excuses and start sending money to their romance scammer, thinking that they are helping them. That’s when the romance scammer starts creating emergency excuses as to why they need money. The victims start building trust in the romance scammer and feel like they could do no wrong. They continue to talk to their victims on a daily basis and make them fall in love with the romance scammer. Because phone numbers can easily be traced to their owners, Messaging apps are also an easier way for these scammers to hide their identities. However, if their WhatsApp or Google Hangouts accounts are deleted, then they can just create a new one easily using a picture, username, and new email. They think that if they continue the conversation on a social media or dating app and their victims become suspicious, they can report their account to have it deleted after all the hard work the scammer put in creating the fake profile. Scammers use messaging apps to keep their fake social media accounts from being reported. Some of these scammer’s apps of choice are Kik, Whatsapp, and Google Hangouts. This flattery is usually followed by an excuse as to why they need to leave the platform and move the conversation to a messaging app. They then use romance scammer tactics to lure their victims in. The victims become flattered. They do so from fake accounts with stolen photos from celebrities and influencers. Catfish scammers use social media to send direct messages to their victims. But these apps are usually not where these scams begin. It’s true, scammers love talking through WhatsApp and Google Hangouts. Why Do Scammers Use WhatsApp and Google Hangouts for Scams?
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