Signs Your WhatsApp Is Being Remotely Monitored
Hackers can use various methods to tap into WhatsApp accounts, ranging from installing third-party applications and exploiting vulnerabilities in WhatsApp Web to sending malware-laden files. Typically, these illegal actions aim for financial gain through scams or by draining victims’ bank accounts.
To anticipate such threats, you need to recognise the basic signs that your WhatsApp account might be under surveillance or tapped by someone else.
Here are the signs that your WhatsApp is being tapped:
- Receiving a sudden One Time Password (OTP) SMS
You should be suspicious if you receive an SMS containing a WhatsApp OTP. This secret six-digit 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 trying to breach your account. Remember, never give that code to anyone.
- Account logs out by itself
Another striking sign is a WhatsApp account that 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 logged out suddenly, another device has likely managed to seize access to your account. You can monitor the list of active devices through the settings menu by selecting the Linked Devices option.
- Messages are read mysteriously
If you find that an incoming message has already been read (indicated by blue ticks or no longer bold) even though you are certain you never opened or read that message, this is a strong signal that your account has been hijacked and is being monitored by another party.
- Messages are sent automatically
Similar to the previous point, you must be fully alert if you see chat history showing messages, files, or links that were sent automatically. This occurrence confirms that a hacker has taken full remote control of your WhatsApp account.
- WhatsApp Status changes to something unfamiliar
Do not ignore it if unfamiliar WhatsApp Status (Stories) uploads suddenly appear outside your control. If you never created those uploads previously, it is certain there is illegal activity from another party on your account.
- Unknown call logs appear
The final indication of WhatsApp tapping is the appearance of unfamiliar phone or video call history. You may find outgoing or incoming calls that you never made or knew about.
To avoid the threat of cyber tapping, one of the most effective preventive steps you can take is to activate the Two-Step Verification feature. This layered security feature has proven effective in preventing outsiders from accessing your WhatsApp account because they are required to enter an additional PIN code known only to the legitimate owner.
Here is how to activate the two-step verification feature:
Click the three vertical dots icon in the top right corner of the WhatsApp application
Go to the Settings menu, then Account
Click the Two-Step Verification option
Press the Enable button
Enter a secret six-digit PIN code of your choice, then confirm it.
Do not forget to enter an active email address to facilitate the recovery process if you ever forget the registered PIN.
Always ensure you maintain the confidentiality of your PIN code and OTP so that no party can infiltrate and misuse your account without your knowledge.