🚨 New WhatsApp Gold Scam Alert 🚨

There has been new reports that criminals are circulating fake messages about a premium version of WhatsApp called "WhatsApp Gold", claiming it offers exclusive features like video calling, new emojis, enhanced security and rewards. 

These messages often include a link to download WhatsApp Gold  — but this is a scam!

🔴 There is NO official WhatsApp Gold 🔴

Clicking the link may install malware on your device, steal your personal data, or compromise your accounts!!

There has also been reports of WhatsApp users receiving a smishing message warning about a dangerous video link called “Martinelli”. The message claims that if you open this video, it will hack your phone and steal your information.

The message also falsely claims that “WhatsApp Gold” — a supposed premium version of WhatsApp — will protect you from this threat.

There is no verified evidence that a “Martinelli” video exists or poses any threat to WhatsApp users. 

WhatsApp Gold is a scam — it is not an official product and may lead to malware or phishing sites. 

These messages are part of a scam designed to spread fear and convince users into clicking malicious links or downloading harmful apps!

How to Protect Yourself:

📞 Report It

If you've received or clicked on a WhatsApp Gold scam message, report it to:

Action Fraud (UK’s national fraud and cybercrime reporting centre) 

🌐 Online: www.actionfraud.police.uk 

📞 By phone: 0300 123 2040 (Monday to Friday, 8am – 8pm)

Remember ABC:

Never ASSUME – Never assume a caller is genuine.
Never BELIEVE – Never believe a caller is genuine – Scammers may ‘spoof’ official telephone numbers, so the call display may show your banks telephone number, but it does not mean it is a genuine call. 
Always CONFIRM – Always confirm if the call is genuine –Ask for identification (Name, Branch, employee number etc). Tell the caller you will hang up and call back to confirm. Call back on the number shown on the official website using a different phone, or wait at least 10 minutes. Ask if it was a genuine call. 

Banks, police, HMRC and other organisations will NEVER ask you to transfer money, send money or ask for banking details and passwords. NEVER give this information to anyone.

Stay safe!

Emily