A stranger is messaging me on WhatsApp: how to check who it is
A number you haven't saved messages you on WhatsApp: a job offer, a "Hi Mum" from a new number, or a prize. Check before you reply.
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A stranger is messaging me on WhatsApp: how to check who it is
A number you haven't saved messages you on WhatsApp. Sometimes it's a real contact with a new phone, but most of these messages are scam attempts: reports from the NoCall community include more and more numbers operating through messaging apps.
1. The 3 most common scams
- Fake job offer: "Earn money liking posts", or simple tasks that end with you being asked to pay something upfront.
- The "Hi Mum" message: "Hi Mum/Dad, this is my new number", followed by an urgent request for money.
- Prize or giveaway: you've "won" something, but you have to pay a fee or hand over your bank details to claim it.
2. Check through another channel
Don't carry on the conversation with the new number: call the person on the number you already have for them, video call them, or ask something only they would know. A real family member will be glad you checked.
3. Never share codes
No one legitimate will ask you for a verification code. If someone asks for the WhatsApp code that just arrived by text, they're trying to take over your account.
4. Block and report
In the chat, tap the number and choose "Block" and "Report". Report it on NoCall too, to warn other users, and to Scamwatch, the national scam-reporting service. If a supposed relative asks you for money, read our guides first. If you've lost money, contact your bank straight away and report it to police: the AFP explains which crimes it handles and how to report them, and its cybercrime page links to ReportCyber.
Why is a stranger messaging me on WhatsApp?
It could be a real contact with a new number, but more often it's a scam: fake job offers, the "Hi Mum" message asking for money urgently, or prizes that ask for a fee before you can claim them.
How do I check whether the message is genuine?
Don't play along with the new number: call the person on their usual number or contact them another way. Be wary of urgency, sloppy writing and any request for money or verification codes.
How do I block and report a number on WhatsApp?
Open the chat, tap the number, then choose "Block" and "Report". You can also report the number on NoCall to warn other users.
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Article details
Editorial content reviewed by NoCall with practical context for spotting suspicious calls and messages.
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