By Destiny Uko
Thanks to a range of features such as its user-friendly interface and its end-to-end encryption, WhatsApp is one of the most widely used messaging apps globally. But its booming popularity also makes it a prime target for hackers. From hijacked verification codes to fake group invitations, scams on the apps are increasingly now widespread. Even if you’re not savvy about tech there are effective steps you can take to secure your account and stay safe.
A common tactic involves hackers joining group chats under fake profiles, then calling members, asking for some “registration code.” This six-digit code from WhatsApp gives hackers complete access to your account and your contacts.
Here’s a clear, step-by-step guide to protecting your WhatsApp account.
Enable Two-Step Verification
Activating two-step verification adds an extra layer of defence. This sets a six-digit PIN which WhatsApp will ask for when your number is registered on a new device. To turn it on, click Settings, then Account, then Two-step verification, and add a recovery email. Avoid using predictable PINs like “123456”; Opt for a unique set of numbers instead.
Lock WhatsApp with Biometrics
Even if someone else picks up your phone, they shouldn’t be able to open WhatsApp. Go to Settings > Privacy and enable the built-in app lock using fingerprint or Face ID. You can also lock individual, sensitive conversations with Chat Lock, adding an additional password to protect specific chats.
Turn On Security Notifications & Verify Contacts
Here is one feature that many users are perhaps not oblivious of. WhatsApp’s Security Notifications alert you when a contact’s encryption key changes, which is useful to detect suspicious activity. You can also manually verify end-to-end encryption by tapping the contact’s name in chat and comparing the encryption QR code.
Encrypt Your Backups
While messages on WhatsApp are always encrypted, backups on Google Drive or iCloud are not by default. Enabling end-to-end encrypted backups secures your chat history with a password that only you know. Without it, hackers with access to your cloud account can read everything.
Watch Out for Phishing & Spam
Hackers often use phishing messages or links to trick users into handing over verification codes or passwords. Avoid clicking suspicious links, even from known contacts, and never share your verification code or PIN with anyone, not even someone pretending to be “WhatsApp support.”
It is also crucial to avoid using public Wi‑Fi without a VPN; these unsecured networks can expose your WhatsApp.
Monitor Linked Devices
WhatsApp Web can remain connected on other devices without your knowledge. Regularly check Settings > Linked Devices and log out of any unfamiliar or long-forgotten devices.
Keep WhatsApp & Device Updated
Ensuring your app is updated keeps it protected against the latest threats. Install updates through the App Store or Google Play, and update immediately an update is available
Limit Who Can Add You to Groups
To avoid being added to unwanted groups arbitrarily, open Settings > Privacy > Groups, and select “My Contacts” or specific people. This option will typically send you an invitation instead.
Use Disappearing Messages & “View Once” Media
For sensitive information, enable Disappearing Messages or View Once. These features automatically delete chats and media after a time, reducing the risk if someone gains physical access to your phone.
Protect Your Phone Itself
Use a strong device passcode and enable biometric locks to protect your entire phone. Do not frown at using face ID and a pattern to ensure your phone is fortified.
Broken verification codes are the most common way hackers gain access to WhatsApp. Locking WhatsApp protects users in shared or insecure environments. Encrypted backups keep your past messages safe even if your cloud account is compromised. Monitoring linked devices helps spot unauthorised access. Disappearing messages reduce the damage if your phone falls into the wrong hands.
Even for non-tech-savvy users, these security choices can be easily managed through WhatsApp settings to not only safeguard your account but also your identity.
WhatsApp's widespread use makes it a target for hackers, but users can protect themselves through various security measures. Enabling two-step verification adds a layer of protection by requiring a PIN when registering WhatsApp on new devices, while biometric locks ensure unauthorized users cannot access the app. Users should activate security notifications to be alerted if a contact's encryption key changes, which may indicate suspicious activity. Encrypting backups secures chat histories, preventing access if hackers infiltrate cloud accounts.
Additional precautions include avoiding phishing attacks by not clicking suspicious links, using a VPN on public Wi-Fi, and regularly monitoring linked devices to detect unauthorized access. Keeping the app updated safeguards against new threats. Users can limit who can add them to groups and enable disappearing messages for sensitive information that deletes automatically. Ensuring strong security on the phone itself, such as using biometric locks and robust passcodes, is vital. Overall, even those unfamiliar with technology can manage these settings to protect their WhatsApp account and personal data.
