Police warn the public to be vigilant of suspicious WhatsApp activity after an increase of scams involving deepfake technology and artificial intelligence.

A police spokesman said criminals may attempt to get control of a WhatsApp account by obtaining a person’s verification code or personal information.

He explained this was often done by sending victims a code for a “Zoom” meeting and requesting a six-digit code.

This code was then used to migrate their WhatsApp account to a new device.

Offenders can impersonate the account holder and contact family members, friends or business associates requesting money, financial assistance or sensitive information.

Police said advances in AI technology have made it increasingly possible for criminals to create convincing content that appears to come from a real person, including using AI-generated audio to imitate voices.

The spokesman advised people to stop, think and verify before responding to requests for money, and not to act immediately under pressure.

If a caller claims to be a relative or trusted person, recipients should ask questions an impersonator would be unlikely to know, and not rely solely on voice notes, images or videos sent.

The spokesman warned the public to never share one’s WhatsApp verification code or PIN with anyone, even if the request comes from someone recognised.

He advised the public to use two-step verification on WhatsApp accounts and to be cautious of any unexpected messages asking for or gift cards, banking information or urgent assistance.

The public was urged to not to click on any suspicious links or provide personal information including banking or login information.

Devices linked to WhatsApp accounts should be regularly reviewed and those that seem unfamiliar should be removed.

If you believe you have been defrauded, the spokesman advised contacting your financial institution immediately if money has been transferred or financial information has been given.

Relevant WhatsApp numbers should be saved, as well as any evidence such as screenshots, transaction information or messages.

Suspected fraud or account compromising should be reported to police as soon as possible.