Getting random messages from unknown numbers on WhatsApp can be annoying and concerning. Here are some potential reasons why this happens and what you can do about it.
You may have been added to a group or forwarded message chain
One of the most common reasons for getting messages from strange numbers is that you were added to a group chat or forwarded message chain without your consent. Here’s how it happens:
- Someone starts a group chat and adds a bunch of random numbers.
- Someone receives a forwarded message and decides to keep forwarding it to more people.
- Your number gets added to the group or forwarded chain without you realizing it.
When this happens, you suddenly start getting messages from a bunch of numbers you don’t recognize. The messages may not even be intended for you specifically, but you still see them because you’re part of the group or message chain.
You may be receiving spam or phishing messages
Another possibility is that the messages are spam or phishing attempts from scammers and spammers. Here are some common scenarios:
- Spammers send bulk messages to random numbers to advertise products, websites, or services.
- Scammers pretend to be someone you know and ask you to send money or share sensitive information.
- Attackers try to install malware or gain access to your account by sending you fake login links.
These types of messages are often easy to identify if you know what to look for. Signs of spam/phishing include:
- Messages that seem too good to be true, like money offers or prizes.
- “Urgent” requests for personal information or money.
- Typos, grammatical errors, and other signs of sloppiness.
- Links to sketchy websites instead of messaging directly.
Your number may have been compromised
In some cases, getting strange messages could indicate that your phone number has been compromised in a data breach or illegal data sale. If criminals and other bad actors have your number, they may use it to send spam or phishing messages.
Signs your number is compromised include:
- A sudden large increase in spam calls and messages from random numbers.
- Messages referencing personal details that a stranger shouldn’t know, like your name, location, age, etc.
- Suspicious login attempts or activity on your other online accounts.
If you suspect your number has been compromised, take steps like changing passwords, enabling two-factor authentication, and being vigilant about spam calls and messages.
You may have contacted the number previously
In some cases, the “strange” numbers messaging you are not so strange after all. Here are some reasons you may recognize the number if you think back:
- It’s someone you contacted previously like an old friend, client, or business contact.
- You signed up for a service or website using your number and forgot about it.
- It’s someone you gave your number to and forgot, like at a party or other event.
So before automatically blocking or ignoring a number, take a minute to check if it could be a previous contact trying to reach you again.
What to do about strange numbers messaging you
If you keep getting bombarded by messages from numbers you don’t recognize, here are some tips on what to do:
- Don’t engage or respond – Replying could confirm they reached a real number and make the problem worse.
- Block each number – On WhatsApp and your smartphone, block each individiual number so they can’t message you again.
- Leave any groups – If added to a group with strangers, immediately leave it.
- Report spam – Use WhatsApp’s reporting tools to report any abusive, spammy, or phishing messages.
- Add a spam filter – Download a spam call and text blocking app to automatically filter out likely spam.
- Change your number – As a last resort, changing your number stops anyone from messaging it again.
Staying safe from strange numbers
Here are some general tips to stay safer and prevent strange messaging in the future:
- Be cautious sharing your number publicly or posting it online where crawlers can find it.
- Don’t click on questionable links in messages from unknown numbers.
- Review WhatsApp and smartphone privacy settings and disable options to “Allow anyone to add you to groups.”
- Don’t accept messages or calls from unknown numbers. Block them instead.
- Be wary of any unusual requests for personal information over WhatsApp.
- Make your WhatsApp profile private so only your contacts can see your photo and status.
Conclusion
Strange numbers messaging you on WhatsApp can be annoying but are often harmless. Be cautious of potential scams or spam, block suspicious numbers, and review privacy settings to keep your number more protected. With some diligence, you can maintain your peace of mind even as random messages come your way.