However, if their WhatsApp or Google Hangouts accounts are deleted, then they can just create a new one easily using a picture, username, and new email. They think that if they continue the conversation on a social media or dating app and their victims become suspicious, they can report their account to have it deleted after all the hard work the scammer put in creating the fake profile. Scammers use messaging apps to keep their fake social media accounts from being reported. Some of these scammer’s apps of choice are Kik, Whatsapp, and Google Hangouts. This flattery is usually followed by an excuse as to why they need to leave the platform and move the conversation to a messaging app. They then use romance scammer tactics to lure their victims in. The victims become flattered. They do so from fake accounts with stolen photos from celebrities and influencers. Catfish scammers use social media to send direct messages to their victims. But these apps are usually not where these scams begin.

It’s true, scammers love talking through WhatsApp and Google Hangouts. Why Do Scammers Use WhatsApp and Google Hangouts for Scams?

How whatsapp scams work