WhatsApp is considered one of the most secure messaging apps you can use, but it’s not infallible. You should still be aware of possible scams through fake business accounts. Here’s how to check if a company is real on WhatsApp and how to spot a fake account.
1. The blue check mark
Whether it concerns a supposedly necessary bank account check, an expiring SIM card or an undeliverable package for which you have to pay postage: WhatsApp is full of scammers who only pretend to be a company.
To distinguish real business accounts from fake accounts, WhatsApp has introduced a blue check mark next to the account name (or green in some markets, such as Germany).
This indicates that the account has been verified by WhatsApp and is most likely real and reliable.
Chris Martin / Foundry
2. View company information
The verification of the company with the blue check mark is carried out by WhatsApp according to fixed criteria.
Simply tap the contact’s name to learn more about the company.
3. Chat overview
WhatsApp also marks verified business accounts with a blue checkmark in the chat overview.
4. Channels
Official company accounts are also for channels.
More about WhatsApp:
This article originally appeared in our sister publication PC WELT and was translated and adapted from German.
