WhatsApp Friend in Need Scam

smishing

A scammer hacks or clones a friend's WhatsApp account and sends messages asking for urgent financial help. Victims transfer money before realising the friend was impersonated.

Known Contact Details

063 954 9984

How They Request Payment

Mobile Money

Payments requested via Cash Send, Instant Money, or e-Wallet.

Bank Transfer (EFT)

Victims asked to deposit into an account held at Absa or a fake "safe account".

Common Targets

student

Gauteng

3 reported

How This Scam Works

Compromise WhatsApp account → message contacts for urgent help → collect money.

Reported Locations

Stellenbosch, Western Cape, South Africa

4 reports

Est. R 8 089 lost

First reported 27 September 2023

Last reported 30 June 2026

whatsappimpersonationfriend in needscam

This happened to me

4 people experienced this

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What should I do?

Step-by-step guide for scam victims →

WhatsApp Friend in Need Scam

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