The personal messaging app is the most recent medium for scammers trying to steal your data. Here’s what to look out for.
Had a friend or family member share a deal that’s too good to be true with you on WhatsApp recently? If so, you’re not alone.
For most people, getting a message like this from someone they know well is more likely than not to be believed – and scammers depend on that trust.
We’ve seen a swathe of scams circulating on the personal messaging app WhatsApp which using big-name brands like Costa Coffee, Morrisons and Sainsbury’s to lure people into parting with their personal details.
Free cash?
These WhatsApp scams all feature promotional deals and competitions that are too good to be true, including a free £150 gift vouchers, a free £120 gift card and a free £75 voucher to celebrate a brand birthday.
Here’s what the latest Morrisons and Sainsburys WhatsApp scams look like:

The message itself is written like an endorsement, often with emojis for an added personal touch.
As the URL shared in the message typically contains the name of a big-name retailer, it looks like a tempting offer from a trusted brand via a trusted source.
Clicking on the link in the message will usually take you to an online survey asking for your personal information, including your email, home address and phone number, before the free ‘prize’ or free ‘gift voucher’ can be sent to you.
Chain scam
When the survey is completed, you’re asked to select WhatsApp friends to share the deal with.
The promotional message and link is then sent to all of those contacts. The scam continues to grow.
If you see any scams like these, let us know so we can help raise awareness when they are happening
So, have you seen any scams like these circulating on WhatsApp? What are your top tips for identifying whether a deal is genuine or a fake?