How do I check a suspicious WhatsApp message?

Copy the message or link into ScanLens before tapping it. The app can review full message wording, links, redirects, brand signals and reputation.

What WhatsApp scams are common?

Common patterns include fake verification codes, family emergency messages, job or task scams, crypto investment lures, delivery links and account takeover warnings.

Should I send a verification code from WhatsApp to anyone?

No. A real company, friend or support agent should not need your one-time code. Treat requests for codes as high risk.

ScanLens / WhatsApp scam checker

WhatsApp scam checker: check suspicious links and messages

Copy a suspicious WhatsApp link into ScanLens before opening it. For messages without a link, pause and verify requests for money, verification codes, device linking or urgent help through another contact method.

Last reviewed: 18 July 2026. Author: ScanLens. Source review: official guidance listed below.

Scan a suspicious link Get full-message scanning in the app

WhatsApp scam patterns to check

Verification-code scamsMessages asking you to share a one-time code or confirm a login. Job and task scamsFake earning tasks, app optimization jobs and withdrawal fees. Crypto investment luresWrong-number conversations, investment groups and fake profit screenshots. Gift card and emergency luresNew-number, lost-phone, voucher and urgent money requests.

Example of a WhatsApp scam

Example: "Hi Mum, this is my new number. My phone broke and I need help paying an urgent bill today." The sender then asks for a bank transfer and says they cannot take a call.

Call the person on the number you already know. Do not send money, codes or account details until you have confirmed who is asking.

Warning signs in WhatsApp messages

The sender asks you to move fast, keep the message private, or avoid calling.
The message asks for a code, payment, gift card, crypto transfer or bank details.
The link uses a shortener, strange domain, or fake brand wording.
The message claims a friend or family member has a new number and needs urgent help.

Requests to scan a QR code or share a device-linking code can also give another device access to your WhatsApp account.

What to do if you already responded

If you sent money, contact your bank immediately and explain that it may be a scam payment.
If you shared a code or linked a device, review Linked Devices in WhatsApp and remove anything you do not recognise.
If you entered a password on a linked page, change it on the real service and enable two-step verification.
Block and report the account in WhatsApp, and warn the person being impersonated.

Official safety and reporting guidance

WhatsApp scam checker FAQ

Can ScanLens scan WhatsApp notifications?

The Android app can warn about links found in message notifications when Scam Guard Lite is enabled. It does not read your inbox.

Can a WhatsApp message be dangerous without a link?

Yes. Gift card, crypto, bank transfer and verification-code scams can be risky even without a URL. Full-message scanning helps catch those patterns.

What should I do if a friend asks for money on WhatsApp?

Call the person using a known number before sending money, codes, gift cards or account details.