According to reports, WhatsApp is testing a cool new feature that will allow users to select a unique “avatar” to represent themselves online. This functionality is currently being released to a subset of the app’s Android beta users.
WABetaInfo reports that the Meta-owned instant messaging program will soon release an avatar feature for users on Android, iOS, and desktop computers around the world. If you’re using WhatsApp on Android 2.22.21.3, the new Avatar feature is available in the beta version right now. It will be available for beta testers on iOS and desktop computers soon.
WhatsApp is releasing the ability to set up an avatar to some lucky beta testers on WhatsApp beta for Android!
An avatar is the best way to express yourself on WhatsApp: let's configure an avatar so you can share personalized stickers with your friends.https://t.co/rISRcluygb pic.twitter.com/E5cBNqKEtF
— WABetaInfo (@WABetaInfo) October 21, 2022
Extra caution is required when using social media apps like WhatsApp, Instagram, Telegram, and so on. “Fake messages are circulating on numerous social media platforms (WhatsApp, Instagram, Telegram, etc.) that falsely claim a festive offer leading users into gift links and prizes,” the CERT-In advice warns. Female victims are the primary focus of the threat actor’s campaign, which encourages them to spread the link via WhatsApp, Telegram, and Instagram. Moreover, it explains that most of these malicious websites have Chinese.CN domain endings, along with a few others, like.XYZ and .top.
This is a well-thought-out scheme with multiple insinuations designed to trick you into giving over your money. In the message, the user will see a link that they are encouraged to forward to their loved ones. To make matters worse, following the “Congratulations” message, those who click the link are presented with a survey. In order to receive the award, visitors are asked to enter their personal information on malicious websites.
How To Avoid Online Scams?
The first and foremost precaution you can take to protect yourself from falling for such scams is to avoid clicking on links from sources you don’t know and trust. When in doubt, it’s best to double-check that the website or link in question is legitimate and not a copy. It’s important to keep in mind that a legitimate business or organization will never ask for your password directly.
Never respond to a request for personal information or login credentials via e-mail or text message; doing so leaves you vulnerable to identity theft. Since these attacks frequently include illegitimate financial dealings, it is prudent to institute transfer limitations for UPI and other transactions via your bank.