WhatsApp account hacked? Here are 3 quick solutions
Tips for stopping WhatsApp account tapping
Hacking WhatsApp accounts is still common and can have a bad impact on users if not handled immediately. Although WhatsApp has a security system such as end-to-end encryption and two-step verification, security loopholes can still occur, especially if users are less vigilant.
Some common mistakes such as sharing the OTP code with others or forgetting to log out on a foreign device could be the cause of the account being taken over. To stop tapping, here are some steps you can take:
1. Remove account from foreign device
The first step that needs to be done is to check the devices connected to the WhatsApp account.
Open the WhatsApp application on your main phone.
Go to the settings menu.
Select the Linked Devices option.
Check the list of connected devices.
Select a suspicious device and then click Logout.
This method is very effective if the account is accessed through another device without permission. By doing this step, you can make sure that only devices you trust can access your WhatsApp account.
2. Re-login WhatsApp account
After removing the account from a foreign device, the next step is to re-login to retrieve account control.
Delete the WhatsApp application from your phone, then reinstall it.
Log in using the registered number.
Enter the verification code (OTP) sent via SMS.
After successfully logging in, the account previously used by other parties will automatically log out. If the tapper has activated two-step verification, you may be asked to enter an additional PIN. If you don’t know the PIN, you need to wait up to 7 days before you can log back in.
3. Report to WhatsApp
If the account has not been successfully restored, you can report directly to WhatsApp.
Send the report via email to support@whatsapp.com by explaining the chronology of events in detail.
The sooner the report is sent, the greater the chance that the account can be secured again. By reporting the problem, you help WhatsApp in identifying and fixing security holes that may exist.
how to prevent whatsapp is tapped
To avoid similar occurrences, users are advised to:
- Don’t share OTP code with anyone
- Enable the two-step verification feature
- Avoid logging in on unknown devices
- Routinely check linked devices
The two-step verification feature can be activated via the Settings menu > account in the WhatsApp application. With this step, the account will have an additional layer of security in the form of a six-digit PIN when logging in.
By understanding the method above, users can be more alert when facing the potential for wiretapping and keeping their WhatsApp account safe.
