A new digital scam, known as the WhatsApp screen sharing scam or screen mirroring scam, is reportedly duping unsuspecting users across India. Fraudsters trick individuals by impersonating themselves as government officials and manipulate them into sharing their phone screens during a WhatsApp video call, giving scammers full visibility of sensitive information such as bank account details, one-time passwords (OTPs), and personal messages.
Once access is granted, cybercriminals can steal bank details like passwords or OTPs, take over social media accounts, or even commit identity theft using the victim’s personal data. Here’s how this scam works and how to stay protected.
Typically, the scam begins with a call or message, where scammers pose as a bank official, customer care representative, or government officer. The fraudster claims there is an issue with the victim’s account or offers to help resolve a service-related problem.
The victim is then asked to install a screen-sharing or remote access app like AnyDesk and share the screen. Once shared, every action on the phone, from net banking credentials to receiving OTPs or opening private apps, is visible to the scammer in real time. This allows them to capture critical information and misuse it for fraudulent transactions quickly.
In some cases, instead of screen sharing, scammers trick users into downloading malicious software such as keyloggers, which secretly record keystrokes like PINs and passwords. This makes it possible for fraudsters to reset passwords, change linked mobile numbers, and even lock victims out of their own accounts.
Beyond financial losses, these scams carry the added risk of identity theft, as stolen details can be used to open new accounts or conduct illegal activities in the victim’s name.
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Users are warned that no legitimate bank, government agency, or customer support service will ever ask users to share their screen or install third-party apps. Here are some safety tips that will help you stay safe.