How to Trace and detect a Fake WhatsApp number

WhatsApp, like other secure social media applications requires all users to first verify their phone numbers as a way of eradicating scammers. However, some people have discovered a way to bypass this security measure. As a result, there has been a number of fake WhatsApp accounts in use. So, in this blog, we will teach you how to trace and detect a fake WhatsApp number such that you can stay safe while chatting online.

How do people create fake WhatsApp Numbers?

During the phone number verification step, some people resort to using free SMS or Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) services to mask their real phone contacts on WhatsApp. This practice involves using temporary or virtual phone numbers to create WhatsApp accounts, providing a layer of anonymity.

While using virtual numbers for privacy or specific use cases may have legitimate reasons, it’s essential to highlight that the misuse of these numbers for malicious activities, such as spamming, phishing, or harassment, is against the terms of service of most platforms, including WhatsApp.

Why do some people use fake Numbers?

• In most cases, people who use fake WhatsApp numbers have malicious intent at the back of their minds. They use fake numbers as part of fraudulent activities, such as phishing, scamming, or identity theft.
• Others may resort to using fake WhatsApp numbers for pranks and harassment. This can involve sending unwanted messages or engaging in deceptive behavior.
• It is also possible that someone chooses to use a fake WhatsApp number to avoid location tracking or to provide inaccurate location information on their mobile devices.

How to Trace a Fake WhatsApp number

WhatsApp prioritizes user privacy and does not provide direct tools for verifying the authenticity of a phone number, which makes detecting fake numbers challenging. However, below are ways and sign to help you notice if someone is using a fake phone number:

1. Profile Information:

Check the completeness and consistency of the user’s profile information. Fake accounts may have incomplete profiles, lack profile pictures, or use generic images.

2. Behavioral Patterns:

Be wary of unusual behavior, such as unsolicited messages, rapid changes in status or profile picture, or an excessively friendly approach. Fake accounts may be used for spam, phishing, or other malicious activities.

3. Communication Style:

Pay attention to the way the person communicates. If there are inconsistencies, odd language usage, or requests for personal information, it could be a sign of a fake account.

4. Limited Online Presence:

A lack of presence on other social media platforms or an absence of additional online information about the user might indicate a fake account.

5. Profile Picture Verification:

Use reverse image search tools to verify the authenticity of the profile picture. Fake accounts often use stock images or pictures taken from other sources.

6. Unusual Time Zone Activity:

If the user claims to be in a specific location but their activity or response times suggest a different time zone, it might be suspicious.

7. Refusal to Share Additional Information:

If you have doubts, ask for additional verification. A refusal to share more details or evasion of such requests may indicate deceptive intentions.

8. Use of Virtual Numbers:

Fake accounts might use virtual or temporary phone numbers. If you suspect this, check if the phone number is associated with other suspicious activity online.

Conclusion

If you have strong reasons to believe an account is fake, you can report it to WhatsApp. In the chat with the suspicious account, tap on the user’s name, scroll down, and select “Report contact.” In case you need more assistance with this, feel free to talk to us.

Frequently Asked Questions