In recent times, many WhatsApp users have reported receiving strange, confusing, or downright disturbing messages from unknown numbers. While this can be alarming, there are some common reasons behind these weird WhatsApp messages that are good to know about.
What are some examples of strange WhatsApp messages?
The types of odd messages people receive vary widely, but here are some common ones:
- Messages that appear totally random, like strings of numbers or unintelligible text
- Messages in unfamiliar languages that the recipient does not speak
- Pictures or videos that make no sense or seem bizarre or creepy
- Messages that address the recipient by the wrong name
- Messages that ask personal questions in a strange way
- Messages from unfamiliar numbers that act very familiar with the recipient
- Messages that try to scam the recipient in unusual ways
In most cases, these messages are not actually meant for the people receiving them and are the result of some sort of mix-up or issue with WhatsApp’s systems.
What are some common reasons behind strange WhatsApp messages?
Wrong number mix-ups
One of the most common reasons people get weird WhatsApp messages is because the sender dialed a wrong number by mistake. This can happen when someone inputs a number incorrectly when trying to message a friend or family member, or when a contact’s number changes but is not updated everywhere.
The recipient ends up getting a message seemingly out of nowhere that was meant for someone else. The messages may seem very odd and confusing because there is no context.
Bots and spam
Spambots and automated messaging systems sometimes send strange messages to WhatsApp users. These bots may send nonsense text, odd images, or suspicious links in an attempt to get users to engage with malicious sites or services.
Spammers often try to send messages in bulk to many numbers, so recipients may get messages that make no sense or have nothing to do with them personally. WhatsApp has systems to try detecting and blocking spam, but some gets through anyway.
Scammers and phishing attempts
Scammers also commonly use WhatsApp to try tricking users. They may send messages pretending to be someone the recipient knows, asking for personal information or money. Or they may try more creative social engineering scams by sending bizarre texts to provoke a response.
These messages are designed to manipulate users into giving up their personal details and often indicate some form of phishing attempt or scam.
Technological glitches
Problems with WhatsApp’s servers or infrastructure can also sometimes result in weird messages being sent to the wrong people. Server errors, bugs, and other technical issues could potentially mix up messages and cause very confusing experiences for users receiving them.
So unintended system behavior on WhatsApp’s part can be one cause of strange messages, though the company works to quickly fix problems when they pop up.
Intentional pranks or jokes
Some funny (or mean) individuals intentionally try to send odd and confusing texts to prank or mess with people. They may send nonsensical messages or media to random numbers as a prank or strange way of introducing themselves.
Friends may also prank each other by temporarily borrowing someone’s phone and sending bizarre WhatsApp messages to their own number or others’ as a joke.
Creative messages gone wrong
Well-meaning users may sometimes try to be creative and amuse their friends by sending funny media, stories, or rumors through WhatsApp. But sometimes these messages can go awry and end up being received negatively or by the wrong people.
For instance, someone may forward an unusual “artsy” image to a friend that could be very confusing and concerning out of context to someone else receiving it later on.
How can I avoid getting weird messages?
While you can’t prevent every strange message that might come your way, there are some precautions you can take:
- Be very selective about who you give your number to, and avoid posting it publicly online when possible.
- Use WhatsApp’s block and report tools on any suspicious numbers sending you messages.
- Turn on privacy settings like disallowing groups to add you without consent.
- Be wary of unfamiliar links and attachments, which could be associated with scams or malware.
- If necessary, restrict messages to contacts only in WhatsApp’s settings.
What should I do if I get a very weird or disturbing message?
Here are some tips if you receive a message that really gives you a bad feeling or freaks you out:
- Try calling the number to see if you can figure out who it is and ask them to stop messaging you.
- Block the number immediately so you do not get further messages.
- Report the number to WhatsApp so they can investigate spam or abuse issues.
- Alert your contacts that a scammer or strange number may be messaging people from your contacts list.
- Contact the authorities if you feel physically threatened or if you suspect illegal activity.
Trust your instincts – if a WhatsApp message seems dangerous, alarming, or totally out of context, take steps to protect yourself right away.
Conclusion
Strange WhatsApp messages are usually just the result of some common mix-ups or technical errors, but they can sometimes indicate attempted scams, pranks, or phishing attempts. While you should exercise some caution, in most cases these messages are harmless, if confusing. Using privacy settings, blocking numbers, and alerting contacts can help deal with the issue.