The most common WhatsApp scams

Messages promoting a sham service called 'WhatsApp Gold' are recirculating. This scam claims to offer special features to users that can be unlocked by clicking a link – instead, the link leads to malware being downloaded onto your device.

To help you stay protected, our experts have rounded up the most common scams you're likely to come across on WhatsApp, plus tips on how to spot and report them. 

Source: Which? (30 Jul 2026) 

A convincing Apple Pay scam

A wave of fake Apple Pay texts have been reported to Which? in recent months. This convincing scam message tells you that your Apple Pay has been temporarily suspended and asks you to reregister your payment details.

If you add your information, the criminals will quickly enter your card details into their device to set up a new wallet. Find out exactly how this scam works and what to do if you receive one of these texts

Source: Which? (25 Aug 2026)

Investment scams surge

A government-backed campaign to help make investing 'feel more normal, more visible and more relevant to everyday life' is encouraging more of us to invest. But there's also a growing threat of scammers looking to target new investors.

Our fraud expert, Faye Lipson, explains how these scammers operate and some common tactics to watch out for, including an AI-generated Nigel Farage video and fake trading firms. 

Source: Which? (27 Aug 2026) 

Appeal for Witnesses: Daytime Burglary in Our Community

A local resident recently reached out on Nextdoor following a distressing incident in our community. On Wednesday 19th August at around 12:30 pm, a flat was burgled by two men posing as electricians.

Personal items were taken, and the victim is appealing to the neighbourhood for any information or CCTV footage that might help identify those involved.

Details of the Incident

• Date & Time: Wednesday, 19th August at 12:30 pm

• Suspect Descriptions: Two men dressed in dark clothing, masquerading as tradesmen.

• Key Distinguishing Feature: One suspect captured on a doorbell camera entering the block is described as 5ft 6in to 5ft 8in, slim build (around 10–11 stone), with a visible bite mark or scar on the left side of his face.

How You Can Help

• Check Security Footage: If you live nearby, please review your doorbell cameras, home CCTV, or dashcam footage from around 12:30 pm on Wednesday 19th August for anyone matching this description.

• Report Information: If you recognize the man described or saw anyone acting suspiciously around the block at that time, please report it to the police via 101 or submit an anonymous tip through CrimeStoppers on 0800 555 111.

Crime impacts the whole neighbourhood, and sharing relevant footage or information can make a significant difference in helping the victim recover lost items and ensuring our streets stay safe. Please keep an eye out and share this appeal with nearby residents.

Source: Nextdoor 

Fact Check: Debunking the 'Home Affairs' Door-to-Door Census Scam Message

If you have recently seen a warning circulating on Nextdoor, WhatsApp, or Facebook about fake "Home Affairs Officers" collecting fingerprints and photos for an upcoming census, you are not alone. The notice warns residents that thieves with laptops and biometric readers are posing as officials to break into homes.

However, you can rest easy: this viral post is a hoax.

Where Did the Hoax Come From?

This message first surfaced around 2017 in South Africa, where the national government does indeed include a "Department of Home Affairs". Over the years, the exact text has been copy-pasted across North America, Australia, and the UK without modification.

How to Spot Why It Doesn't Apply to the UK:

• Incorrect Terminology: The UK government uses the Home Office, not the "Home Affairs Department".

• No Biometric Census: Official UK censuses are managed by the Office for National Statistics (ONS). Government field officers will never ask to capture your fingerprints or take your photograph on your doorstep.

• Chain Mail Dynamics: The post ends with classic viral chain-letter phrases urging you to "Send this to all your community groups."

How to Handle Doorstep Safety

While this specific message is fake, staying vigilant about genuine doorstep callers is always sensible practice:

• Always check ID: Genuine officials carry official photo identification and will never mind waiting outside while you verify their details.

• Use a door chain: Speak to unknown callers through a window or with a door chain engaged.

• Report suspicious activity: If someone is acting suspiciously at your door, report it to Action Fraud or call 101 (or 999 in an emergency).

Instead of forwarding the hoax warning, feel free to share this article with your local neighborhood groups to set the record straight!

Fake hoax scam warning

 

6 places you should never store your password

Securing your online accounts with strong, unique passwords is key to protecting yourself, but those passwords won't help much if they're stored somewhere criminals can easily access.

From a cluttered inbox to shared cloud storage folders you might have forgotten about, we reveal where you need to avoid storing your passwords – and where to keep them instead.

If you'd prefer 1-2-1 technical advice from Which? experts, including advice on online security and scams, you can join Which? Tech Support. Our friendly team is there to chat on the phone or by email as often as you need. Find out more about the support on offer. 

Source: Which? (31 Jul 2026) 

How to get rid of scam calendar invites

Scam calendar invites are a form of phishing designed to manipulate you into responding, confirming to scammers that your email is active and making you a target.

Unfortunately, getting rid of them isn't as simple as deleting the original email. We explain how to safely remove them from your device without accidentally interacting with them.

Source: Which? (17 Aug 2026)