The WhatsApp application allows thousands of users around the world to communicate by text message, calls or video calls. In recent years, it has become evident that cybercriminals hack into other users’ accounts and In this way they use people’s data to extort them or write to their contacts posing as them.
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So that this type of situation does not happen to you, you must take some measures to prevent hackers from taking advantage and stealing your data. According to the media ‘La Nación’, recently, the Secretariat of Citizen Security of Mexico City issued a series of recommendations to protect your WhatsApp.
Tricks to protect your WhatsApp account
- Do not share the registration code: The six-digit registration code is the key to access your WhatsApp account. Do not share this code under any circumstances, even if someone claims to be from WhatsApp support. This is the most common method that hackers use to take control of accounts.
- Activate two-step verification: Add an extra layer of security by enabling two-step verification on your WhatsApp account. To do this, go to Settings > Account > Two-Step Verification > Activate. It will ask you to create a six-digit PIN code, which will be required every time you register your phone number with WhatsApp, making unauthorized access difficult.
- Protect your voicemail and change default password: Most voicemail services come with a default password, which is easy to guess. Change it to a new four-digit password that is unique and strong, using a combination of numbers and letters.
- Create a strong password: Opt for a password that combines numbers, symbols, uppercase and lowercase letters. A strong password prevents someone with malicious intent from accessing your registration code by calling your voicemail.
Avoid clicking on unknown links.
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- Regularly check your linked devices: Check the devices linked to your WhatsApp account by going to Settings or Settings > Linked devices. If you find any unknown device, select it and choose “Sign Out” option to unpair it.
- Set a security code for your mobile device: Set up a passcode for your phone and make sure you know who has physical access to it. Those who have access could use your WhatsApp account without your permission.
- Beware of unsolicited emails: If you receive unexpected emails to reset your 2-Step Verification PIN or registration code, do not click any links. This could be an attempt to access your phone number on WhatsApp.
It is important to constantly check the devices that are linked to your account.
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How to recover your account if you lost access?
- Sign in again: Open WhatsApp and log in using your phone number. By doing so, you will receive a six-digit registration code via SMS message or phone call.
- Register again: Enter the six-digit code received to register your account again. Once this is done, anyone using your account will be automatically logged out, as WhatsApp only allows one registration per phone number at a time.
- Two-step verification: You may be asked for a two-step verification PIN. If you don’t know it, it means that the person who has access to your account has activated it. In this case, you must wait seven days to access without needing a PIN.
DANIELA LARRARTE ASAAD
DIGITAL SCOPE EDITORIAL
TIME
