# WhatsApp phishing scams and security updates

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/whatsapp-phishing-scams-and-security-updates
> Updated: 2026-07-26T15:10:12.000Z. Sources: 2. Developments: 2.

In July 2026 Meta rolled out an on‑device Scam Alert for WhatsApp to warn users about deceptive links. Shortly after, Albanian State Police issued a warning about phishing attempts that trick users into sharing the six‑digit verification code, allowing scammers to hijack accounts. While these scams were spreading, Meta was also testing an end‑to‑end encrypted iOS cloud‑backup feature that lets users store chats in iCloud with password or key protection. The two snapshots illustrate the concurrent rise of WhatsApp‑related phishing threats and Meta’s efforts to strengthen security and backup options for its messaging service.

## Timeline

### 2026-07-26: WhatsApp targeted by phishing scams in Albania while testing encrypted iOS cloud backup

Albanian police warn of WhatsApp phishing scams while Meta tests encrypted iOS cloud backup, offering free and paid storage options.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/whatsapp-targeted-by-phishing-scams-in-albania-while-testing-encrypted-ios-cloud-backup

### 2026-07-11: WhatsApp scam links deceive users as Meta launches on-device Scam Alert

Scammers exploit deceptive WhatsApp links to steal data, while Meta’s new on‑device Scam Alert warns users of suspicious messages without breaking encryption.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/whatsapp-scam-links-deceive-users-as-meta-launches-on-device-scam-alert

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Cite as: WhatsApp phishing scams and security updates. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/whatsapp-phishing-scams-and-security-updates