Cybercriminals have found a new way to exploit a WhatsApp feature to extort users. It involves "one-time view photos ," a tool that allows users to send images that disappear after being viewed once. The National Police have issued a warning about this type of WhatsApp scam , which is already circulating.
The scam begins when an unknown number sends a photo like this, usually containing sensitive or compromising content. If the victim opens it, the scammer detects this and sends a second message claiming they made a mistake, then accuses and threatens the person for viewing the content, demanding money in exchange for not retaliating.
This is how the scam works
The single view feature has been available on WhatsApp since 2021 and was designed to enhance privacy. It allows users to share photos or videos that automatically delete themselves after a single view, leaving no trace in the chat. However, criminals have turned this tool into a perfect hook for their scams.
The modus operandi is always the same: the scammer sends a one-time viewable photo from a number not in the victim's contacts. The image is usually intimate or compromising, which piques their curiosity. When the user opens it, the cybercriminal receives confirmation that it has been viewed and acts immediately.
At that point, he sends a message claiming he sent it to the wrong person. But it doesn't end there: he begins accusing the victim of accessing the content and threatens retaliation if they don't pay a sum of money. It's classic extortion, but with a psychological component that plays on fear and shame.
Recommendations of the National Police
The National Police have released a video on their social media channels to warn the public. In it, they strongly recommend not opening any one-time-view photos received from unknown numbers , no matter how tempting they may seem. They also emphasize that suspicious messages should not be answered, even if they initially appear harmless.
If you've already fallen for the scam and opened the image, the most important thing is to end communication immediately. The police advise blocking the phone number on WhatsApp and reporting the contact so the platform can take action. This prevents the scammer from continuing to pressure you and protects others from becoming victims.
Signs to detect suspicious messages
Besides the one-time-view photos, there are other clues that can give away a scammer. Spelling or grammatical errors, suspicious links, and requests for personal information are all red flags. You should also be wary of messages asking for passwords, banking information, or payments to unlock an account.
WhatsApp reminds users that the app is free and that any request for money to use it is a scam. Cybercriminals often impersonate people they know, offering fake job opportunities, lotteries, or investments to gain their trust. If an unknown number messages you, the app shows whether you share groups with them or their country of origin, which can help you assess its legitimacy.
What to do if you receive a photo like this
The response to a scam attempt must be swift and decisive. Do not open the photo, do not reply, and block the contact immediately . Report the number to WhatsApp so administrators can investigate and take action. If you have already opened the image and are being threatened, do not pay under any circumstances; follow the simple steps to report a WhatsApp scam and contact the authorities.
It's also advisable to verify the identity of the person writing to you if you have any doubts. A call or video call can confirm whether it's really someone you know or a scam attempt. Prevention is the best tool, and being informed about these tactics helps you avoid falling into the trap.
In short, the one-time-view photo scam on WhatsApp is a real threat that preys on curiosity and fear. The National Police have issued a warning and offer clear guidelines: be wary of unknown numbers, do not open suspicious content, and block any extortion attempts. By following these tips, users can protect themselves and prevent cybercriminals from continuing their activities.
