WhatsApp (WA) is a widely popular instant messaging application across the globe. With its large user base, the risks of account hacking have significantly increased.
Malicious actors often resort to hacking to access user activities, which can lead to loss of crucial data and information. Therefore, it’s essential to understand how to recognize the signs that your WhatsApp account may have been hacked.
Signs Your WhatsApp Account is Hacked
Here are several ways to determine if your WhatsApp account is being tampered with:
1. Unusual Activity
One of the clearest signs of hacking is noticing unusual activities within your account. If you receive messages from unknown contacts or see messages sent from your account that you did not send, your account may have been compromised. Be sure to check your call history for any unexplained calls as well as your contact list for unauthorized changes.
2. Trouble Accessing WhatsApp
If you experience trouble accessing your WhatsApp, such as being unable to log in, or if your account logs out unexpectedly, this could indicate a potential hack. It’s important to monitor whether the issue persists or if it’s just a temporary glitch.
3. Unsolicited OTP Messages
Receiving an unexpected OTP (One Time Password) message is another red flag. This code is required when someone is trying to register your phone number on a new WhatsApp account. If you receive an OTP that you did not request, do not share it with anyone, even acquaintances.
4. Unrecognized Devices Connected
You can check if there are any unrecognized devices linked to your WhatsApp account using these steps:
- Open WhatsApp on your phone.
- Tap the three dots icon for Android or the gear icon for iPhone in the top or bottom corner.
- Select “Linked Devices.”
If you see any devices you don’t recognize, quickly log them out by clicking “Log Out.” This could indicate unauthorized access to your account.
How to Address a Hacked WhatsApp
If you suspect that your account has been compromised, the best course of action is to delete your WhatsApp account to mitigate further risks. Here’s how to do it:
- Open WhatsApp on your phone.
- Tap the three dots icon for Android or the gear icon for iPhone.
- Select the “Account” menu and then tap “Delete Account” at the bottom.
- Enter your WhatsApp number and click “Delete Account.”
Be aware that by deleting your account, all message history and backups on Google Drive or iCloud will be erased, and you'll be removed from all groups.
How to Prevent WhatsApp Hacking
Prevention is always better than cure. Here are some strategies to protect your WhatsApp account from being hacked:
1. Activate Two-Step Verification
Two-step verification adds an extra layer of security to your account. To activate this feature, follow these steps:
- Tap the three dots icon or gear icon.
- Select “Settings” and then tap “Account.”
- Click on “Two-Step Verification” and enable the feature.
- Enter a 6-digit PIN that is easy for you to remember, then confirm it.
2. Enable Fingerprint Lock
Using a fingerprint lock can restrict access to your WhatsApp. Here’s how to enable it:
- Tap the three dots icon or gear icon.
- Select “Privacy” and then click “Fingerprint Lock.”
- Enable the fingerprint scanner and follow the steps to record your fingerprint.
- Choose a timeframe for the app to lock automatically.
Moreover, avoid clicking on unfamiliar links and refrain from sharing OTP codes with anyone.
Recognizing the signs that your WhatsApp account may be hacked is the first step in safeguarding yourself from cybercrime. By taking preventive measures and acting promptly when you suspect your account has been compromised, you can better protect your privacy and personal information. Remember, "an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure."
