Staffordshire Police is reminding residents to stay vigilant following reports of scam messages promoting a supposed premium service called "WhatsApp Gold." WhatsApp Gold is not a legitimate service. There is no official "Gold," VIP, premium, or exclusive version of WhatsApp offered by WhatsApp or its parent company, Meta. These messages are designed to trick people into clicking malicious links, downloading harmful software, or sharing personal information that could be used by fraudsters. How to Spot a Fake WhatsApp Gold MessageBe cautious if a message: Claims you have been invited to an exclusive, VIP, premium, or celebrity version of WhatsApp. Promises special features unavailable in the official app. Includes a link directing you to download software from a website rather than the Google Play Store or Apple App Store. Creates a sense of urgency, such as "Download now before it's withdrawn" or "Invitation only." Contains spelling mistakes, poor grammar, or unusual wording. Encourages you to forward the message to friends and family. Mentions the so-called "Martinelli" video, a long-running hoax often linked to WhatsApp Gold scams.
What Should You Do?❌ Do not click on any links. ❌ Do not download any files or applications. ❌ Do not share or forward the message. ✅ Delete the message immediately. ✅ Block and report the sender through WhatsApp. ✅ Warn friends and family who may also have received the message. How to Protect Yourself✅ Only download WhatsApp from the Google Play Store, Apple App Store, or the official WhatsApp website. ✅ Avoid unofficial versions such as WhatsApp Gold, WhatsApp Plus, or other modified apps. ✅ Never share passwords, PINs, one-time passcodes, or banking details. ✅ Enable Two-Step Verification within your WhatsApp security settings. ✅ Report and block suspicious contacts. RememberIf an offer sounds exclusive, secret, or too good to be true, it usually is. Reporting Suspicious Messages📧 Forward suspicious emails to report@phishing.gov.uk and then delete them. 📱 Forward suspicious text messages free of charge to 7726 (SPAM) and then delete them. If You Have Been a Victim of Fraud or Cyber Crime🌐 Report online via Action Fraud: www.actionfraud.police.uk 📞 Call Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 📞 Contact your bank quickly by dialling 159 Please share this advice with friends, family, neighbours, and colleagues to help protect our communities from fraud and cybercrime. Stay Safe. Stay Alert. Staffordshire Police. 🚔 | 
