The Press Council warned about fake WhatsApp accounts in the name of well-known journalists

The Press Council of Azerbaijan has warned about cases of fraud committed in the name of well-known journalists. Fraudsters create fake WhatsApp accounts through which messages of various content are sent.

As Report was told by the Press Council, information about such cases has been coming in recent days.

According to law enforcement agencies, organized cybercriminal networks located outside Azerbaijan are behind this activity.

"Using artificial intelligence algorithms and special software, these groups target government officials, employees of various enterprises and organizations, journalists, and other citizens. Despite numerous awareness campaigns, some people still fall victim to such fraudulent activities," the statement says.

The Press Council urges journalists and media workers to be vigilant, not to trust suspicious messages without verification, not to respond to them, and not to share their content, even if they are sent on behalf of familiar individuals.

"It is important to verify the source and reliability of information, especially if it carries socio-political content. It must not be forgotten that messages sent through fake accounts are aimed at creating a false impression of people, undermining their reputation, and misleading the public," the statement notes.

The Press Council recommends contacting the police, as well as the National Cybersecurity Agency, when encountering such cases.