Beware of Remote WhatsApp Interception: Watch for These Signs
You need to be cautious of becoming a victim of hacking or hijacking on your smartphone, including the interception of your private WhatsApp account by unknown parties.
Hackers employ various methods to conduct interception, ranging from installing third-party applications and exploiting vulnerabilities in WhatsApp Web to sending files embedded with malware. Typically, these illegal activities aim to reap financial gains through fraudulent schemes or by draining the victims’ bank accounts.
To anticipate such threats, you need to recognise the fundamental signs that your WhatsApp account may be under surveillance or being intercepted. These signs include:
Receiving unexpected OTP SMS: You should be suspicious if you receive a WhatsApp One-Time Password (OTP). This six-digit secret code is only sent via SMS when a new device attempts to access or register your WhatsApp account. If this SMS arrives while you are not performing any login activity, it means another party is attempting to breach your account. Remember, never share this code with anyone.
Automatic Logouts: Another striking sign is when your WhatsApp account suddenly logs out on its own. WhatsApp only allows one primary number to be active on one mobile application at a time. If you are suddenly logged out, it is highly likely that another device has successfully seized access to your account. You can monitor the list of active devices through the settings menu under ‘Linked Devices’.
Messages Read Mysteriously: If you notice an incoming message is already marked as read (blue ticks or no longer bold) even though you have not opened or read it, this is a strong signal that your account has been hijacked and is being monitored by another party.
Messages Sent Automatically: Similar to the previous point, you must increase your vigilance if you see your chat history sending messages, files, or specific links automatically. This confirms that a hacker has full remote control over your WhatsApp account.
Strange WhatsApp Status Updates: Do not ignore sudden WhatsApp Status (Stories) uploads that are unfamiliar and beyond your control. If you did not create the upload, it is certain that there is illegal activity on your account.
Unknown Call Logs: A final indication of WhatsApp interception is the appearance of unknown call or video call histories. You may find outgoing or incoming calls that you never made or were unaware of.
To avoid these cyber interception threats, one of the most effective preventive steps is to enable the Two-Step Verification feature. This multi-layered security feature is proven effective in preventing outsiders from accessing your WhatsApp account, as they will be required to enter an additional PIN known only to the legitimate owner.
Here is how to activate it:
Click the three vertical dots in the top right corner of the WhatsApp application.
Go to ‘Settings’, then to ‘Account’.
Click on ‘Two-Step Verification’.
Press the ‘Enable’ button.
Enter your chosen six-digit secret PIN and confirm it.
Do not forget to provide an active email address to facilitate the recovery process if you ever forget your registered PIN.
Ensure that you always maintain the confidentiality of your PIN and OTP so that no party can infiltrate and misuse your WhatsApp account without your knowledge.