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A new form of cyber fraud known as WhatsApp screen mirroring scam is targeting unsuspecting users across India. Fraudsters are posing as bank officials or representatives of financial institutions to trick people into sharing their device screens. Once access is granted, these criminals steal sensitive information like OTPs, passwords, banking details, and even personal chats, leading to financial losses and identity theft.

How the WhatsApp Screen Mirroring Scam Works

The fraud typically begins with a phone call. Scammers pretend to be customer service agents from a bank or finance company and claim that there is an urgent issue with your account. To “resolve” the problem, they ask you to start screen sharing on your smartphone.

• Step 1: Fake identity – The scammer introduces themselves as a bank employee and convinces you that immediate action is required.

• Step 2: Screen sharing request – You are asked to start sharing your screen via a third-party app or even a WhatsApp video call. The fraudster insists this is necessary to “verify” or “fix” the problem.

• Step 3: Live monitoring – Once the screen is shared, the fraudster can see everything you do on your phone in real-time.

• Step 4: Stealing credentials – As you enter your PIN, OTP, or online banking passwords, the scammer captures this sensitive information.

• Step 5: Malware installation – In some cases, they trick victims into installing apps containing hidden keyloggers, which track everything typed on the device, including bank and social media login details.

• Step 6: Unauthorized transactions – With stolen credentials, scammers initiate fraudulent money transfers, gain access to accounts, and may even use your identity for further scams.

The outcome is devastating: victims not only lose money but also face risks of identity theft and misuse of their personal information.

Why This Scam Is So Dangerous

Unlike traditional phishing attacks where fraudsters rely on fake messages or emails, this scam uses real-time access to your phone screen. This makes it more convincing and difficult for victims to detect until it is too late.

Another worrying factor is that scammers often use social engineering—psychological manipulation—to pressure users into compliance. By creating fear around account suspension or security breaches, they push victims to act quickly without questioning the authenticity of the request.

How to Stay Safe from WhatsApp Screen Mirroring Fraud

Experts and cybercrime officials recommend following these safety measures to protect yourself from such scams:

1. Verify the caller – Always double-check if a person claiming to be from your bank is genuine. Banks never ask customers to share screens, OTPs, or passwords.

2. Do not share personal information – Never disclose sensitive details such as banking credentials, OTPs, or debit card numbers over the phone.

3. Avoid untrusted apps – Android users should avoid downloading apps from unknown sources, as these can contain spyware or keyloggers.

4. Block and report suspicious numbers – If you receive such calls, block the number immediately.

5. Report to authorities – Victims of cyber fraud can file complaints through the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal at cybercrime.gov.in or by calling the helpline 1930.

What to Do If You Are a Victim

If you suspect that you have fallen prey to this fraud, act quickly:

• Immediately report the incident on the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal.

• Call the 1930 helpline number for urgent assistance.

• Inform your bank and freeze your accounts or cards if any unauthorized transactions are detected.

Final Takeaway

The WhatsApp screen mirroring fraud highlights how cybercriminals are constantly evolving their methods. By impersonating bank representatives, they exploit trust and urgency to deceive people. The best defense is awareness—remember that no bank will ever ask you to share your screen, OTP, or password. Stay cautious, verify every call, and report suspicious activity to safeguard your money and identity.