Scammers are targeting the users of a mobile phone or computer application called WhatsApp.

The Cyber Crime Team of Lincolnshire Police says WhatApp users are finding their accounts compromised due to a new scam that's making the rounds.

Police say the main aim of the scam is to trick the victim into handing over a one-time code that is necessary to install WhatsApp on another device.

Usually, the scammer will already have access to a compromised WhatsApp account and will contact the victim posing as a known friend. The scammer then tells the victim that they are struggling to receive their own six-digit installation code and have sent it to them instead.

The scam tricks its victims into thinking that they're helping a friend, when in reality they are sending over their six-digit code for their own account.

As soon as the code is handed over to the scammer, they will login to the victim's account to either steal their personal information like the groups they are in or any new messages they receive. They may also ask for money.

Lincolnshire Police have advised people not to share their 6-digit pin to anyone – this is meant for themselves only.

If someone asks for the code, their request should be ignored.

They further advise: "If you have unfortunately fallen victim to this scam, reinstall WhatsApp on your device and ask for a fresh activation code. This will reset the app on your phone.

"To better protect your account, make sure you have enabled your two-step verification for WhatsApp. This helpful feature adds an additional layer of security to your account.

For more information on how to enable your two-step verification feature, visit WhatsApp's FAQ page.

Lincolnshire Police continue: "If you receive any suspicious text messages, forward it to 7726. It won't cost you anything and allows your provider to investigate the text and to take action if the message is found to be a scam.

"If you've lost money, contact your bank immediately and report it to Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 or online. Reporting these will help prevent others from becoming victim of fraud and cyber crime."