The Clever Trick Behind the Vote
Cybercriminals create deceptively real voting pages — with photos, participant lists, and vote counters. Topics vary: sometimes it’s young gymnasts, sometimes school projects or local talents. The sites are available in many languages and appear completely legitimate.
Then comes Phase 1: The bait. The message appears to come from a friend or relative — whose account has already been hacked. You're asked to vote for someone. One click takes you to the fake website.
Phase 2: The Trap. You're asked to authenticate via WhatsApp — using your phone number. Sounds simple, right?
Phase 3: The Theft. The attackers exploit WhatsApp’s web login feature. You receive a code, which — as instructed — you enter into your app. Without realizing it, you’ve just linked a stranger’s device to your account. From that moment on, the attackers have full access: contacts, chats, and your identity.
What to Do When It Really Matters
- Open WhatsApp → Settings → Linked Devices
- Immediately disconnect any unknown devices
- Change Your Security Settings
- Inform your contacts about the incident
A-SQUARE recommends:
- Activate two‑factor authentication to keep your digital world secure
- Use only official messenger versions to keep your communication secure and trustworthy
- Never click on links that ask you to authenticate — keep your accounts protected from the start
- Regularly review your connected devices to keep your digital ecosystem secure and under control.
- Stay skeptical — even when messages appear to come from friends
Conclusion
Help is good — but caution is better. If someone asks you to vote, ask yourself: Would this person really send something like that? And why do I need to log in just to vote? A moment of doubt can save you from a major scam.
A-SQUARE protects you from digital deception. Stay alert. Stay safe.
