Scanning the Wrong QR Code Could Land You in Jail: Govt Warns Against WhatsApp Rental Scams

A new wave of digital fraud is sweeping across India, and this time cybercriminals are targeting WhatsApp users in a dangerous and highly deceptive way. Many people, lured by quick money, are renting out their WhatsApp accounts for as little as ₹500–₹1,000—unaware that this small amount could cost them their freedom. The Ministry of Home Affairs has now issued a strong warning: never sell or rent your WhatsApp account, or you could face legal consequences, including jail time.

A New Form of Cybercrime: Renting WhatsApp Accounts

Until now, people commonly heard about “mule accounts” being rented for bank-related frauds. But cybercriminals have now taken this scam a step further. Fraudsters are offering money to individuals in exchange for access to their WhatsApp accounts. By simply scanning a QR code sent by the scammer, victims unknowingly hand over complete control of their WhatsApp account.

Once access is granted, scammers use that WhatsApp number to conduct fraud, send fake messages, and run illegal operations—making the original user liable for all criminal activities linked to that number.

The Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C), working under the Ministry of Home Affairs, recently posted a detailed warning video on social media platform X. In the advisory, citizens are urged not to fall for schemes that promise small monetary gains in exchange for renting their WhatsApp accounts.

How the Scam Works

The process seems simple—but that’s what makes it dangerous.

1. Fraudsters offer “WhatsApp rent” or “auto earning” schemes

People are approached through social media ads, messages, or anonymous calls promising easy income.

2. A QR code is sent to the victim

Scammers convince the victim to scan a QR code under the pretext of activating a service or verifying their account.

3. Control of the account is transferred

Once the code is scanned, cybercriminals gain full access to the WhatsApp account.

4. Fraud begins from your number

The hijacked account is then used to:

• Send fake loan or investment offers

• Request emergency money from contacts

• Spread malicious links

• Carry out large-scale frauds targeting hundreds of people

Users often realize the damage only when they are contacted by authorities.

Why This Scam Is Extremely Dangerous

1. Your WhatsApp account gets hijacked

By scanning the wrong QR code, you hand over complete access to your chats, personal information, groups, contacts, and even cloud backups.

2. You become an unknowing accomplice

If fraud is carried out using your WhatsApp number, law enforcement agencies may initially consider you responsible, leading to interrogation, criminal charges, and potential imprisonment.

3. Your personal data can end up on the dark web

Cybercriminals may extract personal conversations, photos, and contact lists, which can be sold online for illegal activities.

4. You risk long-term legal trouble

Even if you claim you were unaware, renting out your WhatsApp account counts as enabling illegal activities—making you liable under cybercrime laws.

How to Stay Safe from WhatsApp Rental Scams

To avoid becoming a victim—or an accidental criminal—follow these essential safety measures:

✔ Never rent or sell your WhatsApp account

No matter how small or large the amount offered, sharing your account is illegal and risky.

✔ Avoid scanning unknown QR codes

Fraudsters often disguise their QR codes as verification links or earning schemes.

✔ Enable two-factor authentication (2FA)

This adds an extra layer of security and prevents unauthorized access.

✔ Report suspicious activity immediately

If you suspect your account has been compromised:

• Call 1930 to report cyber fraud

• Visit cybercrime.gov.in to file a complaint

✔ Never click unfamiliar links or join unknown groups

Fraudsters use group invites and malicious URLs to trap people.

Bottom Line

WhatsApp rental scams are rising rapidly, and scanning the wrong QR code can turn your digital carelessness into a criminal case. The government’s warning is clear: do not fall for quick-money scams and never hand over your WhatsApp account to strangers. A moment of greed can lead to long-term legal trouble, financial loss, and even imprisonment.