How to Handle Messages from Unknown Contacts on WhatsApp. It might be a simple “Hi” or something more detailed. Regardless, it can feel unsettling when the sender is unknown.
Before replying, it’s useful to follow certain steps to identify who’s contacting you and determine if they merit your time and attention.
Check if You Share Mutual Connections in a Group
First, see if you and this person are part of any mutual WhatsApp groups. When opening a chat with an unknown number, WhatsApp typically shows whether you’re both members of the same group at the top of the conversation. This can provide helpful context right away.
If the person is from a group you recognize, such as a community or work-related group, it’s more likely that they have a legitimate reason for contacting you. In this situation, consider checking the group chat history or even contacting an admin to verify their identity. However, if there are no mutual groups between you and them, it’s wise to be particularly cautious moving forward.
View Their Profile Picture
Profile pictures can often provide hints about someone’s identity. Check the display photo of an unknown contact, if available; a recognizable face or environment might jog your memory about how you know them. However, exercise caution if their profile picture is absent, overly generic, or too polished—it could indicate a fake account or spammer.
However, a profile picture by itself cannot verify someone’s identity. Scammers frequently use harmless-looking photos, so consider this only one of several pieces to the puzzle rather than a definitive assurance of their true identity.
Avoid clicking on any links they send.
If you receive a link from someone you don’t recognize, don’t click on it until you know the sender’s identity. Scammers often use malicious websites to compromise devices and steal personal information. Clicking these links may lead to phishing sites or trigger downloads of harmful software.
Rather than acting impulsively, proceed with caution. Be extra wary of messages that seem urgent or enticing—such as those claiming you’ve won a prize or need to verify an account—as these are often scams. Remember that legitimate organizations rarely send unsolicited links without explanation, so avoid interacting until you have more information about the sender.
Inquire about their identity and ask how they obtained your phone number.
If you’re still curious or feel the person might be genuine, it’s fine to politely inquire about their identity and how they obtained your number. Keep it brief and direct with a message like, “Hi, can you tell me who this is and where you got my number?” This approach can give some context and help assess their intentions.
Consider it a red flag if someone responds with a vague or evasive answer. Authentic contacts typically have no issue explaining their connection to you or how they obtained your contact information. Conversely, scammers and spammers may deflect questions, offer generic replies, or become aggressive. Trusting your instincts is important; it’s wise to end the interaction there if something feels off about their response.
Be Alert for Common Scam Patterns
Scammers often use recognizable patterns in their messages. Be alert for indicators such as a sense of unusual urgency, promises of substantial money, or assertions that you’ve won something. Impersonation is another frequent tactic used on WhatsApp; scammers might pose as a friend, family member, or coworker claiming they’ve “lost their phone” and require your assistance.
Be on the lookout for spelling and grammar mistakes, overly formal or robotic language, or any requests for personal information. Scammers might also try to guilt-trip you or pressure you into responding quickly—stay alert to such emotional manipulation tactics. Spotting these warning signs early can help protect you from scams.
Block and report if needed.
If you feel uneasy or suspect someone may have harmful intentions, don’t hesitate to block and report them on WhatsApp. Blocking prevents them from messaging or calling you while reporting assists WhatsApp in identifying and taking action against possible scammers.
To block and report a contact, open the chat, tap on their name at the top, scroll down to find Block and Report Contact, and select it. This straightforward action helps safeguard you and others from possible scams. Always prioritize your safety over giving an unfamiliar person the benefit of the doubt when you’re feeling unsure.
Getting a message from an unknown person on WhatsApp can be unnerving, but you can manage it safely with the right strategy. Start by seeing if you’re both in any mutual groups, reviewing their profile information, steering clear of suspicious links, and watching for warning signs to evaluate their intentions without compromising your safety. If something doesn’t feel right, don’t hesitate to block and report them immediately.
