Your WhatsApp account isn’t just a way to chat with friends — unfortunately it’s also a potential target for cybercriminals. Stolen accounts are often used for everything from spamming to elaborate scams. Hackers are always looking for ways to hijack accounts, and understanding their methods is the first step to protecting yourself.

How Hackers Can Take Over Your WhatsApp Account

Cybercriminals typically use two main tactics to gain access to WhatsApp accounts: One method involves linking a new device to an existing account using the “Linked devices” feature. In this case, the original user can still use their account, but attackers can see recent messages.

The second method is more aggressive — hackers re-register the account on their own device, as if setting up a new phone. When this happens, the original user is locked out, and all control is transferred to the attacker. While past messages remain inaccessible to the hacker, they can still exploit the account for scams and fraud.

Also Read: Is Your Phone Hacked? How To Find Out & Protect Yourself

Seifallah Jedidi, Head of Consumer Channel, META, at cybersecurity firm Kaspersky, highlights the risks: “Messengers are a private space, as they often contain personal information about our lives and relationships with family and friends. They can also contain information about work and, in some cases, confidential information. If you notice any unusual activity, such as receiving replies to messages that you didn’t send, or if your friends complain about strange messages coming from your account, it’s important to take steps to protect your privacy immediately”.

How To Keep Your WhatsApp Account Secure

If your account has already been compromised, you’ll need to follow WhatsApp’s recovery steps. However, according to Kaspersky, the best defense is prevention.

Here’s what you should do:

• Enable two-step verification and memorize your PIN: This is a permanent code, not a one-time password. You can set it up in WhatsApp by navigating to Settings → Account → Two-step verification.
• Don’t share your PIN or registration codes: Legitimate services will never ask for them — only scammers do.
• Use passkeys for added security: WhatsApp recently introduced support for passkeys, which replace PINs with biometric authentication. To activate this, go to Settings → Account → Passkeys.
• Set up a backup email address to help recover your account if needed: You can do this by going to Settings → Account → Email address.
• Secure your email account: If you’ve already linked an email, update your password to a strong, unique one. Consider using a password manager to store it safely.
• Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) for your email: This adds an extra layer of protection.
• Watch out for SIM swap scams: Contact your mobile carrier — preferably in person — to confirm that no unauthorized SIM cards have been issued for your number. Also, check that call forwarding hasn’t been set up without your consent. If any suspicious activity is detected, ask about additional security measures such as requiring an extra password for authentication.

Finally, ensure that your computer or phone are fully protected from malware, as no amount of security settings will help if a device is compromised. During Ramadan, Kaspersky is offering a 30% discount on its Premium solution, which also includes a one-month complimentary OSN Plus subscription with access to a vast selection of 4K, ad-free movies and series.