If you get this Whatsapp message, delete it immediately: Latest scam tricks users into paying for the service

Fake texts warn recipients that their subscription to Whatsapp has run out
Criminals hope to trick people into providing their payment details
People who have received the message should delete it and run anti-virus

By Tim Collins For Mailonline

Whatsapp users should be on the lookout for a new scam which tries to charge them for using the instant messenger.

Fake text messages have been sent out in recent weeks warning recipients that their subscription has run out.

Fake text messages (pictured) have been sent out in recent weeks warning recipients that their Whatsapp subscription has run out

The message also contains instructions to receive a lifetime subscription for a small fee and are being used by criminals to trick people into providing their payment

This particular form of the scam first emerged last month, but reports have been on the increase.
The message reads 'Your subscription has expired. To Verify your account and purchase a lifetime subscription for just 0.99 GBP simply tap on this link'.

Whatsapp did charge 99p after the first year of use when it first launched back in 2010, but this was scrapped.

People who have received the message should delete it immediately.
If you have clicked on the link it contains, you should also run antivirus software to ensure your device has not been infected with malware.  
It is unclear exactly how many users have been targeted or how criminals obtained the phone numbers.
But concerned Whatsapp users have taken to Twitter to warn others about the scam.
Kieran Stevenson‏ said: 'I've just had a text from "Whatsapp" saying my subscription has expired and I need to click a link to renew it. Scam, right?'
Kate Davies added: 'Anyone else received a text from #WhatsApp saying you're subscription has expired ..but you can buy life long for £1 ?

THE SCAM 

Fake text messages have been sent out in recent weeks warning recipients that their Whatsapp subscription has run out.
The message also contains instructions to receive a lifetime subscription for a small fee and are being used by criminals to trick people into providing their payment details.
People who have received the message should delete it immediately.
If you have clicked on the link it contains, you should also run antivirus software to ensure your device has not been infected with malware.