WhatsApp Hack: In today's digital age, WhatsApp hacking has become a serious threat. Hackers are taking control of users' accounts using methods like OTP phishing, SIM swapping, call merging. Recently, writer Shantanu Gupta and many others were victims of similar cyber fraud, due to which they were locked out of their own WhatsApp accounts for hours.

If you also use WhatsApp, then it is very important to be cautious. Let us know the methods of WhatsApp hacking, prevention measures and advice of cyber experts.

How does WhatsApp get hacked?

OTP Phishing: Hackers pretend to be WhatsApp support or someone you know and ask for the six-digit OTP and take control of your account.

SIM Swapping: Cyber criminals get a new SIM issued on your number and then register WhatsApp.

WhatsApp Web Hacking: If someone uses your phone even for a few seconds, he can control your account by linking it to WhatsApp Web.

Call Merging Scam:

• Scammers call in the name of someone you know.
• Then you are asked to merge the calls, due to which you unknowingly forward the WhatsApp OTP call.
• The hacker gets your OTP and your account comes under their control.

WhatsApp hacking alert signals

WhatsApp can be hacked if you received an OTP but did not request it. WhatsApp was suddenly logged out. Your number was registered on a new device. A friend or acquaintance is asking for an OTP. If any of these happens, reset your WhatsApp account immediately and complain to the 1930 cyber helpline.

10 important tips to avoid Whatsapp hack

• Turn on Two-Step Verification: Go to WhatsApp Settings and set a 6-digit security PIN.
• Never share OTP with anyone.
• Check devices logged into WhatsApp Web regularly.
• Do not merge calls with any unknown person.
• Set a security PIN on the SIM card so that no one else can use it.
• Set up biometric lock (Face ID/Fingerprint).
• Silence unknown callers (option available in WhatsApp settings).
• Strengthen privacy settings — set Profile Photo, Last Seen, and About to “Only Contacts.”
• Avoid clicking on suspicious links and do not share any personal information with any unknown person.
• If any scam occurs, immediately complain 1930 or cyber crime portal.

Whatsapp Hack: What do Meta and cyber experts say?

According to Meta, WhatsApp is constantly adding new safety tools. The company has also started awareness campaigns like “Scams Se Bacho”.

Cyber expert Gautam Kumawat and UP police officer Shiv Raj have advised users to be cautious and adopt “Zero Trust Policy”.

Whatsapp Hack: Avoid cyber crime, be alert

WhatsApp hacking is increasing rapidly, but with the right precautions you can keep your account safe. Update WhatsApp's security settings immediately and be alert to any fraudulent calls or messages.

PC:Lalluram