WhatsApp, a leading mobile messaging platform owned by Facebook, has risen to prominence since its inception in 2009, boasting nearly three billion users globally. As the app increasingly serves as a tool for both personal communication and professional collaboration, the potential fallout from a hacking incident can be severe. Cybercriminals exploit compromised accounts to perpetrate scams, steal funds, and deceive contacts. Understanding the signs of a hacked account and the recovery process is essential for users.
Did Your WhatsApp Get Hacked?
Users often become aware of unauthorized access to their WhatsApp accounts through various warning signs. These may include unusual activities such as messages sent from unknown contacts, unread messages appearing as read, or unexpected verification codes arriving via SMS.
Friends and family might also alert you to suspicious messages sent from your account, which could request money, personal information, or contain dubious links. Additionally, if you notice changes to your profile—like a new photo or altered details—this could indicate that attackers are impersonating you as part of a broader scheme. A sudden slowdown in your phone’s performance might also suggest that hidden applications are running in the background, further indicating a breach.
What To Do If Your WhatsApp Is Hacked?
In the unfortunate event that you suspect your WhatsApp account has been compromised, it is crucial to act swiftly to mitigate any damage, regain control, and fortify your account against future attacks. While recovering your account is typically a straightforward process, addressing the aftermath of the hack requires diligence. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate this situation:
Step 1: Delete Fake Messages
Once you regain access to your account, promptly delete any messages that the hacker may have sent. If your profile picture or other personal information has been altered, revert these changes to restore your original identity. Additionally, check for any unfamiliar contacts added by the hacker and remove them as well.
Step 2: Check For Unexpected Apps
Hackers may have installed unauthorized applications on your device to facilitate their schemes. Review your installed apps and eliminate any that you do not recognize or did not authorize.
Step 3: Check For Unauthorized Devices
WhatsApp allows access from multiple linked devices, so it’s essential to ensure that no unauthorized users remain logged in. Navigate to Settings within the app to view the list of Linked Devices. If you spot any that are unfamiliar, simply tap on them to log them out of your account.
Step 4: Tell Your Friends
Inform your contacts about the breach, as they may have received messages that appeared to come from you but were actually sent by the hacker. Advise them to disregard any suspicious requests for personal information or verification codes they may have received.
Step 5: Secure Your Account For The Future
If you haven’t already enabled two-step verification, now is the time to do so. This quick process can be initiated by going to Settings, then Account, and selecting Two-step verification. You will be prompted to create a PIN, adding an extra layer of security. Additionally, consider adjusting your privacy settings to restrict profile visibility to only your contacts by navigating to Settings, Account, Privacy, and then Profile Photo.
How Can You Recover Your WhatsApp Account?
Recovering a hacked WhatsApp account is generally a straightforward affair. Simply sign in with your phone number to re-register, and you will receive a six-digit code via SMS or a phone call. Once you complete this process, any unauthorized users will be automatically logged out, as WhatsApp permits only one active registration per phone number.
If you have enabled two-step verification and cannot recall the PIN, you may face a brief delay in regaining access, as there is a seven-day waiting period before you can log in without it. While the recovery process is simpler compared to many other applications, it is vital to inform your contacts of the situation and take proactive measures to prevent future breaches.
