With nearly three billion users, WhatsApp is the world’s most popular messaging app, integral to both our personal and professional lives. This also makes it a prime target for hackers.
A compromised account can lead to serious problems, including financial extortion and identity fraud. Hackers typically gain access through social engineering, spyware, or call-forwarding scams.
If you suspect your WhatsApp has been hacked, act immediately to minimize damage:
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Regain Control of WhtsApp: Log back in using the six-digit code sent via SMS. This will automatically log the hacker out.
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Clean Up WhtasApp: Delete any fraudulent messages sent from your account. Restore your original profile picture and details, and remove any unknown contacts added by the hacker.
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Check for Spies: Review your phone’s installed apps and delete any you don’t recognize.
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Review Linked Devices: Go to Settings > Linked Devices to ensure your account is only active on your own devices and log out of any you don’t trust.
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Alert Your Contacts: Warn friends and family to ignore any suspicious messages they may have received from you and to not share any personal information.
For Future Security:
Enable Two-Step Verification (Settings > Account > Two-step verification). This adds a PIN code required to verify your number, providing a critical layer of protection against unauthorized access.
Also read: Google Pixel 10 Series First in the World to Support WhatsApp Satellite Calling
