With over 2 billion users worldwide, WhatsApp has become a necessary tool for daily communication. Its excessive usage has made it a target of scammers who exploit its efficient features to ditch others on the app. One of these activities involves unwanted calls starting from the 234 country code WhatsApp. Many users have reported these calls as being scam or potentially harmful.
The article discusses the same issue and helps users understand which country code these calls belong to and the reasons for these calls. Moreover, you will learn about some common types of scam calls that users generally receive. At the end, the guide will share a method to back up your WhatsApp data to stay safe from such activities.
Part 1. What Is the Meaning of 234 Country Code WhatsApp?
The 234 country code WhatsApp is designated for Nigeria, which means any number beginning with this prefix is from this country. This is similar to how +44 is used as the code for numbers that are from the United Kingdom. Despite this, it is important to consider that users located outside Nigeria might also be using this number, as SIM cards can be used internationally.
Anyhow, it is necessary to stay mindful while interacting with calls from any number that you do not recognize. This is important as scammers generally use international codes like this to initiate contact with potential victims. Especially if you do not have any contacts in Nigeria, it is better not to respond to these calls and messages. Instead, users should block these numbers to avoid any kind of scams.
Part 2. Why Am I Getting WhatsApp Calls from 234?
There could be many reasons for receiving 234 area code WhatsApp calls, and a few are discussed below:
- Wrong Number: Sometimes, people might dial your number by mistake. In case you don’t know who’s calling, simply ignore it, and they’ll eventually stop reaching out.
- Spam Calls: Some companies send out a huge number of calls to unknown people at once. These are often related to promotions, so you can block the number if you are not interested.
- Testing Active Numbers: Scammers sometimes call random numbers to check which ones are active and make a list. If you answer, they know your number is in use and might target you with more scams.
- Phishing Scams: Dishonest individuals might claim affiliation with reputable institutions, seeking confidential information. Users should consistently verify the caller’s credentials before providing any data.
- Scam Attempts: Perhaps a scammer is trying to trick you into sharing personal information or money. They often use international numbers to appear more convincing and try to deceive you.
Part 3. Most Popular Types of Scam Calls
Country code 234 scammers use multiple techniques to deceive people to get their sensitive information. Here are the top 5 popular scam call types you can receive on WhatsApp:
- Lottery Scams: In some situations, you will receive a message telling you that you have won a prize. They ask for a fee to claim it, while legitimate lotteries don’t ask for money upfront.
- Job Offer Scams: Scammers create fake job opportunities and may demand upfront payment for things like training or materials. Protect yourself by constantly researching the company thoroughly before taking any steps.
- Romance Scams: Online relationships that quickly turn to requests for money are usually suspicious. Scammers often use this tactic after showing romantic interest and gaining trust.
- Charity Scams: People should ensure the charity is genuine before contributing any funds. Sadly, there are individuals who make fake organizations to exploit the public.
- Tech Support Scams: A common scam involves uninvited calls about device problems, followed by requests for payment for repairs. Keep in mind that official tech support will not contact you directly like this.
Part 4. Must-Know: Keep Your WhatsApp Data Safe Guide
Now that you are aware of the potential scams that you could get exposed to let us learn a few tips to stay safe. By considering the following tips and tricks, you can secure your WhatsApp data from the international phone code 234 calls.
Tip 1. Use iToolab WatsGo to Safeguard Your WhatsApp Data from Potential Scams
In case you receive a strange message from the 00234 country code number, it is essential to constantly back up your data to cope with these scams. One of the most effective ways to protect your WhatsApp data is by regularly backing it up using reliable tools like iToolab WatsGo. This efficient tool can be accessed through Android and iPhone devices to give users device flexibility.
With this tool, you can securely backup your chats and media as it supports over 20 data types. Moreover, it lets you back up your files from WhatsApp Business and GB WhatsApp, along with a standard version of the app. Apart from backup, it enables users easily restore their backed-up files from Google Drive to their Android. Besides, this tool supports the newest versions of Android 15 and iOS 18.
Moves WhatsApp data from one operating system to another without restrictions.
- The tool lets you store data on the computer without the need for cloud storage.
- While transferring, users can send 40000 messages at once to their PC.
- It allows you to select individual files and preview them before saving them.
- It offers a transfer speed that is 3x faster to save you from long waits.
- This robust WhatsApp solution can be accessed through both Windows and Mac systems.
Comprehensive Guide to Use iToolab WatsGo to Backup Your WhatsApp Data
After learning about the features of this tool, let’s learn the user guide to avoid Nigeria country code WhatsApp scams by backing up your data:
Step 1 Begin by accessing this innovative WhatsApp data toolkit, and then you need to press the “WhatsApp Backup” button.
Step 2 Connect your device to the computer with a USB cable and select it from the drop-down menu. Then, hit the “Backup” button to proceed with the procedure. This process is entirely automated for iOS users, as no additional steps are required.
Step 3 An Android user will have to set up end-to-end encryption by following the on-screen instructions. Besides, it is important to remember this password for later use. Later, provide the password you had set and click on the “Verify” button.
Tip 2. Enable Two-Step Verification
The method discussed above is the best option to back up your WhatsApp messages. Having said this, users can also try enabling the two-step verification to add extra protection. With this feature turned on, WhatsApp will ask to enter a six-digit PIN code when logging in from a new device. Even when hackers can access your SIM card, they can’t access your files without this code.
Tip 3. Be Cautious with Unknown Contacts
Messages and calls from unknown country numbers, especially with country code 234, carry a risk of harm. Scammers often use these tricks on people by pretending to be relatives or trusted companies. They will offer fake prizes or ask for verification codes to gain access to your account. The best way to tackle these messages is to ignore them unless you are absolutely sure who is trying to contact you.
Tip 4. Regularly Update WhatsApp
Another easy precautionary measure that you can take is regularly updating your messaging app. It is an easy way to keep your account safe, as each update fixes the issues that were found in the previous versions. Hackers are always looking for ways to breach your security, and these new updates try to fill the security holes that might have been present in the last update.
Tip 5. Limit Profile Visibility
Many users consider that their display picture or last-seen information may be unimportant. However, it can add you to the list of scammers who are looking for active numbers. Moreover, it allows these frauds to impersonate your identity and harm your near ones. That is why it is vital to restrict your account access to your contacts to avoid 234 country area code scams.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. Can someone hack my phone by texting me on WhatsApp?
It is unlikely that someone can compromise your details just by sending you a message. On the other hand, when the messages have a link or attachment that is harmful, you can get attacked by interacting with it.
Q2. Is it safe to open a WhatsApp message from an unknown number on Android?
When you receive a text from an unknown number, it may contain any kind of malware links. Moreover, it may include an attachment, which may steal your personal information if you open it.
Q3. Can strangers call you on WhatsApp?
With the normal settings of the app, anyone is allowed to contact or call you. Having said this, the messaging app allows a feature of silencing unknown callers, which you can use.
Conclusion
To sum up, the 00234 country code scam WhatsApp calls have been prevalent in recent times. This article discussed which country this belongs to and the reasons for receiving these calls. You also learned about various types of scams and the tips to save yourself from these harmful calls. Additionally, you should back up your WhatsApp data with iToolab WatsGo to ensure it remains safe.
iToolab WatsGo – Safely back up your WhatsApp data
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