WhatsApp Hack- Every day lakhs of people get hacked on WhatsApp, know the way to avoid it.
Friends, WhatsApp is the most popular instant messaging app of today’s modern era, but in recent times, cyber fraud on WhatsApp has increased a lot, hackers adopt new methods, the latest example of which is BJP MP and party spokesperson Sambit Patra, whose WhatsApp account was hacked. Let us know how you can avoid this-
How serious is the problem of WhatsApp hacking?
Cyber fraud involving WhatsApp has become a global concern.
More than 10 lakh (1 million) WhatsApp accounts are hacked or seized every day around the world.
In India, thousands of users report WhatsApp fraud every day through cyber crime helplines.
Meta blocks around 1 crore (10 million) suspicious WhatsApp accounts every month in India, yet scammers keep finding new ways to target users.
How do hackers take over WhatsApp accounts?
Most WhatsApp accounts are hacked not through software bugs but through ‘social engineering’, in which sensitive information is obtained by tricking users. Common methods of cybercriminals include:
OTP theft
SIM swapping
QR code scam
Linked Device (Ghost Pairing) Attack
fake customer support call
Fraudulent links and phishing messages
Meta launches new security measures
To combat online scams, Meta has strengthened the security features of WhatsApp.
According to the company:
Nearly 68 lakh (6.8 million) WhatsApp accounts linked to scam centers were removed in the first six months of the year.
WhatsApp now shows a security alert when an unknown user adds someone to a group.
Users receive a warning before responding to suspicious messages.
Meta advises Users to verify any request for money, job offers, investment opportunities or rewards before taking any action.
How to keep your WhatsApp account secure
1. Turn on two-step verification
Turn on WhatsApp’s two-step verification to add an extra layer of security. Once activated, a 6-digit PIN will be required whenever your account is registered on a new device.
Path: Settings → Account → Two-Step Verification → On
2. Add recovery email
Link your email address to two-step verification so you can easily recover your account if you forget your PIN.
3. Check the linked device regularly
Go to Settings → Linked Devices and review all connected devices. If you see an unknown device, log it out immediately.
4. Never share OTP or security PIN
WhatsApp, banks, government agencies or customer support representatives will never ask you for your OTP or 6-digit security PIN. Never share this information with anyone.
5. Be cautious of unknown messages and calls
Do not trust messages regarding jobs, investments, rewards or important financial requests without proper verification. Always verify the identity of the sender before replying.
6. Strengthen your privacy settings
profile photo
last scene
about
status
To reduce the chance of becoming a target, set these options to “My Contacts” instead of “Everyone”.
7. Avoid scanning unknown QR codes
Never scan QR codes sent by strangers or shared through suspicious links, as they can instantly link your WhatsApp account to another device. conclusion
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