Protect Your WhatsApp Accounts: Best 5 Practices For Account Safety

With the increasing reliance on WhatsApp for communication, hackers are finding new ways to gain unauthorized access to personal messages, contacts, and sensitive data of users. A compromised WhatsApp account can lead to identity theft, financial fraud, and privacy breaches. To prevent such risks, it is important to follow proactive security measures.

Here are five essential steps to protect your WhatsApp account from being hacked.

Do Not Share Six-Digit WhatsApp Verification Code

Hackers attempt to register your phone number on a different device by downloading WhatsApp and entering your number. To complete the setup, they need a verification code, which is sent only to the original user. This method of hacking is called 'social engineering'. If you receive a WhatsApp verification code via text message and someone from your contacts immediately asks you to share it, do not do so. If you give away the code, hackers can gain access to your account and misuse your personal data.

Enable two-step verification

Activating two-step verification adds an extra layer of security by requiring a PIN for account access. Here's how to enable it:

• Open WhatsApp and tap the three dots in the top-right corner.
• Go to Settings > Account > Two-step verification.
• Tap Enable and set a six-digit PIN.
• Enter your PIN and confirm by tapping Next.
• Provide an email address to reset the PIN if you forget it.
• Two-step verification is now enabled.

Avoid Calls And Messages From Unknown Contacts

A hacking technique called 'WhatsApp Forward Call' allows attackers to gain control of a victim's account and redirect incoming calls.

• You may receive a message, email, or phone call tricking you into dialing a number with a Man-Machine Interface (MMI) code.
• If you dial the number, your calls may be forwarded to the hacker's phone.
• The hacker can then install WhatsApp, register your number, and request a verification code via a phone call, intercepting it.

To stay safe, never respond to unknown messages, calls, or emails, and avoid dialing suspicious numbers.

Regularly Check WhatsApp Web

Hackers can place a malicious QR code on fake webpages, tricking users into scanning it with WhatsApp. Once scanned, hackers can steal login credentials and access your account.

• Before scanning any QR code, verify its authenticity.
• Use tools like Bitdefender Scamio to check whether a QR code is safe.
• Regularly check for unauthorized WhatsApp Web sessions by going to WhatsApp > Settings > Linked Devices. If you see any unrecognized devices, log them out immediately.

Avoid Clicking On Malicious Links

Hackers often use malicious links, third-party apps, or email attachments to install spyware on your phone. Once installed, the spyware can record WhatsApp messages, audio, photos, videos, and other data, sending them to the hacker. To prevent this:

• Do not click on suspicious links received via WhatsApp or email.
• Use a mobile security solution that detects and blocks harmful links, messages, and apps.
• Regularly review app permissions and check for any unknown apps on your phone.

Following these steps will help keep your personal information secure and prevent hackers from gaining unauthorized access. Stay alert and prioritize your online safety.