WhatsApp Hacking Signs Exposed: Stay Vigilant
Jakarta, CNBC Indonesia – WhatsApp hacking and eavesdropping incidents are on the rise. However, there are telltale signs to watch for and steps to halt such breaches.
Hackers employ various methods to spy on WhatsApp, including installing third-party apps, exploiting WhatsApp Web, or sending malware to devices.
This poses significant risks, especially as WhatsApp is increasingly used to receive One-Time Passwords (OTPs) for online shopping and financial applications.
Key signs of a compromised WhatsApp account:
OTP: A six-digit code typically sent via SMS when accessing WhatsApp. If you receive an OTP message without attempting to log in, someone may be trying to access your account. Never share this code with anyone.
Unexpected Logout: Sudden logouts from WhatsApp may indicate unauthorised access. Check linked devices via the three-dot menu and WhatsApp Web.
Read Messages: Be cautious if messages are marked as read without your action, suggesting possible account compromise.
Unauthorised Messages: Watch for messages sent without your input, a clear sign of hacking.
Foreign Status Updates: Unexpected status updates not created by you may indicate tampering.
Suspicious Calls: Unfamiliar WhatsApp calls made without your knowledge could signal a breach.
Solutions for Hacked WhatsApp
To prevent breaches, enable two-step verification. This security feature blocks unauthorised access by requiring a verification code. However, if compromised, take these steps:
Report to WhatsApp: Immediately deactivate your account if compromised. Contact WhatsApp support at [email protected] with the subject line ‘Lost/stolen: please deactivate my account’ and include details of the incident, such as when and how the breach occurred. You have 30 days to reactivate the account before permanent deletion.
Reinstall WhatsApp: Reinstall the app to address hacking. Ensure you use the same registered number to receive OTPs for verification.
Lock WhatsApp Screen: On Android devices, enable screen lock via Settings > Privacy > Screen Lock > Scan fingerprint to prevent unauthorised access.
Regularly Check WhatsApp Web: Monitor linked devices via WhatsApp Web. If unknown devices are connected, remove them immediately. To check: tap the three-dot menu, select ‘WhatsApp Web’, view connected devices, then ‘Log out from all devices’.