WhatsApp scams and investigations involving group chats

Cybercriminals are utilizing a sophisticated WhatsApp scam involving fake voting requests to hijack user accounts. Scammers send messages from trusted contacts, asking users to vote for a dancer named Sophie to secure a place in a ballet school. The link redirects users to a fraudulent site that collects personal data and prompts the user to enter a security code under the guise of vote validation. This code allows attackers to gain full access to the victim's account, enabling them to read private conversations and contact acquaintances.

In a separate matter, Mauritian authorities are investigating a WhatsApp group containing over 600 members following reports of messages inciting disorder and vandalism. Akshaye Boodhun, 18, admitted to creating the group in response to a shooting incident at Camp-Levieux. While Boodhun claims the group was intended solely for sharing general information and updates, investigators are reviewing messages that allegedly contain incitements to violence.