# WhatsApp-based crime and fraud in Latin America

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/whatsapp-based-crime-and-fraud-in-latin-america
> Updated: 2026-10-24T13:55:34.000Z. Sources: 2. Developments: 2.

Criminal activity involving WhatsApp has been reported in Honduras and Colombia, ranging from financial fraud to violent crime. In Honduras, hackers compromised a supplier’s account to facilitate a scam involving exchange rates, resulting in a loss of over 204,700 lempiras. Two suspects were arrested in connection with the fraud.

In Colombia, a fraudulent job offer sent via the platform led to the four-hour kidnapping of an accountant in Bogotá. Armed men demanded 50 million COP from the victim’s family and seized cash and valuables before the victim was released.

## Timeline

### 2026-10-24: WhatsApp scams and investigations involving group chats

Reports highlight two distinct WhatsApp issues: a sophisticated account-hijacking scam using fake voting links and a criminal investigation in Mauritius regarding a large group chat allegedly inciting violence.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/whatsapp-scams-and-investigations-involving-group-chats

### 2026-09-27: WhatsApp used in fraud and kidnapping incidents in Honduras and Colombia

WhatsApp is being used as a tool for diverse criminal activities, including a 204,700 lempira fraud in Honduras and a four-hour kidnapping involving a fake job offer in Bogotá, Colombia.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/whatsapp-used-in-fraud-and-kidnapping-incidents-in-honduras-and-colombia

---
Cite as: WhatsApp-based crime and fraud in Latin America. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/whatsapp-based-crime-and-fraud-in-latin-america