Israeli WhatsApp Users Targeted by Lebanese Phone Scam to Steal Verification Codes

Israeli WhatsApp users have reported a sudden surge in hacking attempts involving phone calls from Lebanese numbers (+961). Attackers use a sophisticated method combining unsolicited verification code messages from WhatsApp with confusing phone calls from Lebanon to trick victims into revealing their one-time authentication codes. The scam works by the attacker registering the victim’s phone number on another device, prompting WhatsApp to send a verification code to the original number via SMS or automated voice call. Victims receive these legitimate WhatsApp verification calls alongside confusing calls from Lebanon, designed to create pressure and confusion. The attackers aim to convince users to share the verification code or retrieve it from voicemail, enabling them to take over the WhatsApp account. Experts emphasize that the verification calls from Israeli numbers are automated and legitimate WhatsApp messages, not direct calls from hackers. Users are strongly advised to remain vigilant and never share their verification codes with anyone. Without the code, attackers cannot complete the account takeover process.