Recently, a new phishing scheme surfaced on WhatsApp: the Wplnkr.cc Scam. Disguised as a Esselunga Giveaway, this scam tricks users into clicking malicious links. Much like the earlier Wp-link.ru scam, it misuses the Esselunga brand to lend credibility to its deceitful messages. In this article, we’ll dissect the mechanics of the Wplnkr.cc scam, equipping you with knowledge to identify and guard against it.
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Understanding the Wplnkr.cc WhatsApp Scam 🛑
The Wplnkr.cc WhatsApp Scam is a crafty scheme designed to mislead its victims by exploiting their trust in renowned brands, such as Esselunga. At its core, it begins with a message delivered via WhatsApp, often appearing to come from a familiar contact. This message teases the recipient with alluring offers, typically suggesting that renowned companies like Esselunga are giving away free gifts or cash prizes. The included link, shortened and obscured to look benign, is the scammer’s bait.
Upon clicking the link, the unsuspecting user is directed to the Wplnkr.cc site. Here, intricate JavaScript code runs several checks to validate if the accessing device is a mobile one, like a smartphone. The site also uses geolocation to determine the user’s location based on their IP address. Depending on the outcome of these checks, victims might be redirected differently. If the checks fail, for example, if the link is accessed from a computer, the user might be shown a generic “404 error” page, giving the illusion of a harmless broken link.
However, if the checks are successful, users find themselves on a page where they’re presented with an opportunity. It’s here that they’re told they can win a prize by merely taking a short and anonymous survey. It’s all designed to feel engaging and legitimate. After answering a few questions, they are led to believe they’ve won and are just a step away from their reward. This step, however, involves sharing the message with more contacts on WhatsApp, perpetuating the scam’s spread.
The final stage of this deception is the most malicious. Once users have shared the message, they’re taken to a page where they’re asked to enter personal data and credit card details, ostensibly to cover delivery charges for their “prize”. But in reality, they’re handing over sensitive information to the scammers. And to add insult to injury, they unknowingly get subscribed to an expensive subscription that starts siphoning money from their account until halted.
In conclusion, the Wplnkr.cc WhatsApp Scam is a crafty trick that uses trusted names to fool people. It’s a reminder that we should always be careful online, double-checking offers and being skeptical of too-good-to-be-true deals. As scams get smarter, so must we in spotting them. Always trust your instincts and think twice before sharing personal details.
Is the Wplnkr.cc WhatsApp Message a Virus? 🦠❌
No! The Wplnkr.cc WhatsApp message isn’t a virus. It’s a cunning ploy by scammers to mislead and exploit people. The message usually houses a link that shuttles users to the shady website, Wplnkr.cc. Here, the real deception unfolds, luring users into revealing sensitive data like personal and credit card info. Although not a virus, interacting with this scam might expose you to dangers like identity theft, monetary fraud, or even malware threats.
💡 Safety Tip: If you’re hit with a dubious message, block the sender on WhatsApp. Open the chat, click on the sender’s name or number, scroll, and hit “Block”. Amplify your defense by marking the message as spam or reporting it. This equips WhatsApp to tackle malicious players. 🚫📲🔒
Examples of such scams
Scams that prey on the allure of free items, be it virtual currency in online games like Roblox or exclusive products linked with celebrity names, are rampant on the internet. Crafted with cunning intent, these scams lure individuals into a web of deceit, leading them to fake websites or making them perform tasks that benefit the fraudsters. This either results in direct monetary gains for the scammers or gives them access to victims’ sensitive information. While the Wplnkr.cc Scam is a notable example, it’s far from being an isolated incident. Here, we delve into other infamous scams to illustrate the depth and breadth of these deceptive practices.
Mr Beast Giveaway Scam 💸
Mr. Beast, a well-known YouTube philanthropist famous for his lavish giveaways, has unfortunately been impersonated in various online scams. These counterfeit promotions claim that users can win large sums of money or other prizes by performing certain online actions, such as sharing links, providing personal information, or making a small “entry fee” payment. The real Mr. Beast has no connection to these scams, and his official giveaways are always conducted on his verified social media channels.
Guy Fieri Pit Boss Scam 🍖
Promising fans a chance to own a free grill from a renowned brand, this scam circulates primarily on Facebook. Users are invited to participate in a giveaway where they stand a chance to win a “Pit Boss” grill endorsed by celebrity chef Guy Fieri. To participate, users are often asked to share the post, tag friends, or click on external links — actions that further propagate the scam or potentially expose the user to malicious software.
Shein $500 Gift Card Scam 🛍️
Fashion e-commerce platform Shein is another brand that has been exploited by scammers. Users receive messages or see posts claiming they can win a $500 gift card to spend on Shein. To “win”, users might be directed to click on questionable links, share the post, or provide sensitive personal information. Such scams not only mislead users with fake promises but also risk compromising their online security.
These examples emphasize the importance of always verifying the source and being skeptical of offers that seem too good to be true. Cybercriminals continually adapt their tactics, capitalizing on popular names and trends to ensnare unwary individuals. Always exercise caution and conduct due diligence before engaging with online promotions.
What to Do When You Receive the Wplnkr.cc WhatsApp Message? 🚫📲
If you’re hit with the Wplnkr.cc WhatsApp message, act swiftly to shield yourself and others:
Beware of the Scam 🔍
Understand that the Wplnkr.cc message is deceptive. Even if it’s from someone you know, don’t click any links. Scammers cleverly spread their trap via friends.
Alert the Sender 🗣️
If you recognize the sender, inform them via another trusted means like a phone call. They might be unaware they’re spreading a scam.
Raise Awareness 📢
Educate your friends, family, and social groups about this scam. Advise them on the importance of not trusting or clicking unfamiliar links.
Erase the Message 🗑️
In WhatsApp, long-press the scam message, hit delete, and choose to remove it either just for you or for everyone in the chat. This can reduce its spread.
Notify WhatsApp 📧
Forward the scam message to WhatsApp’s support. Use their official contact or email from their website. Your report helps them act against such frauds.
Took the Bait? Act Fast! ⏳
If you’ve clicked and shared details, monitor your bank and credit statements. Update passwords and alert your banks. Consider a fraud alert or credit freeze. If you’ve lost money, visit What to do if you were scammed for steps on possible refunds or stopping transactions.
Remember, staying informed and spreading awareness are essential steps in combating scams like the Wplnkr.cc WhatsApp scam. By taking these proactive measures, you can protect yourself and others from falling victim to such fraudulent schemes.
Threat Summary
| Name | Wplnkr.cc WhatsApp Scam, “Wplnkr.cc spam”, “Wplnkr.cc virus” |
| Type | WhatsApp Scam |
| Disguise | Uses trusted platforms (WhatsApp) and popular gaming event themes to appear legitimate. |
| Fake claims | Participation in a fake giveaway, offering Esselunga gift card (Carta Prepagata da 500€ per la Festa della Donna). |
| Damage | Potential financial loss, identity theft, unauthorized charges, risk of malware infections |
| Indicators of the Scam | Unexpected prize messages, need to share with 20 contacts, request for personal info. |
| Distribution methods | Shared via WhatsApp messages. Users might be encouraged to spread the message. |
| Prevention Tips | Avoid clicking on unknown links, verify with sender, be skeptical of “too good to be true” offers, update and use security software. |
| Reporting Info | Forward suspicious messages to WhatsApp’s official support or report via the app. |
What to do if you were scammed 🚫🔐
If you’ve been caught up in the Wplnkr.cc Scam, don’t panic. It’s important to act quickly to protect yourself and your finances.
🏦 Contact Your Financial Institution:
Immediately inform your bank or credit card company about the unauthorized transaction. They may be able to stop the transaction, reverse it, or even issue a chargeback. Request a new credit/debit card if you believe your card details have been compromised. Document any financial losses. This can be essential for investigations and potential reimbursements.
🔐 Change Passwords:
If you suspect your personal information, especially passwords, have been compromised, change them immediately. This is crucial for accounts linked to financial institutions or personal data. Consider using a reputable password manager to ensure strong, unique passwords for each account.
👀 Monitor Your Accounts:
Keep a close eye on your bank and credit card statements for the next several months. Look for any unauthorized or suspicious transactions, no matter how small. Consider enrolling in a credit monitoring service. Some services will alert you to changes in your credit report, potentially indicating identity theft.
🚔 Report the Scam
Forward the scam email to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at spam@uce.gov. Report the scam to your local law enforcement and provide them with all the details and evidence you have.
💻 Check Your Computer
If you’ve downloaded any attachments or clicked on any links in the scam email, your device might be infected. Run a comprehensive antivirus scan. Consider consulting with a professional to ensure your computer is clean from malware or spyware.
📘 Educate Yourself
Familiarize yourself with common scam tactics to avoid falling victim in the future. Stay updated on recent scams or phishing methods by following news sources or official government warnings.
📢 Inform Others
Warn friends and family about the scam, especially if it’s widespread. Sharing your experience can help protect others from the same pitfalls.
Conclusion
The Wplnkr.cc WhatsApp scam is a calculated attempt by malicious actors to exploit the popularity of Esselunga and its events, targeting unsuspecting users primarily through a chain-letter approach on WhatsApp. By mimicking genuine events and rewards, it seeks to extract personal and sensitive information.
Even though the Wplnkr.cc message isn’t harmful by itself, its method of asking victims to share the message makes it spread fast. What to do? Don’t click, delete the message, block the sender, and tell your friends and family about this scam. Being alert and informed is the best way to stay safe. 🛡️🚫🔍
