Instant messaging apps like WhatsApp have become essential everyday tools, containing a wealth of important information about users' personal and professional lives. As a prime target for cybercriminals, Kaspersky has shared some important technical tips for protecting accounts from hacking.
Cybercriminals mainly use two methods to hack WhatsApp accounts:
The first is to add another device through the Linked Devices feature, which allows them to access conversations without disrupting the rightful owner's use of the account.
The second method involves re-registering the account on another device, which results in the original user losing access, although old conversations remain out of reach of hackers.
Seifallah Jedidi, Regional Director of Consumer Business at Kaspersky, said:
« Instant messaging apps are private spaces, filled with details about our daily lives, our relationships with loved ones, and sometimes even professional or confidential information. If you notice unusual activity, such as replies to messages you didn't send, or if your friends complain about strange messages coming from your account, it's important to take immediate action to protect your privacy. »
To protect a WhatsApp account from hacking, Kaspersky recommends the following preventive measures:
Enable two-step verification and remember PIN (via account settings, two-step verification).
Never share your PIN or temporary verification codes with anyone — only fraudsters ask for them.
Use the digital access keys feature, recently introduced by WhatsApp (settings, account and access keys), which relies on biometric authentication and storing an encryption key on the device. This method is very secure, but can be cumbersome for those who frequently switch devices.
Add a backup email address to regain access to the account (via Settings, Account and Email Address).
Change your email password to a strong, unique one, and use tools like Kaspersky Password Manager to store it securely.
Enable two-step verification for your email account.
Check that your SIM card has not been cloned or fraudulently replaced by visiting your carrier in person to verify that no alternative SIM card has been issued for your number, and that no unauthorized call forwarding has been activated. If any abnormality occurs, you should request immediate cancellation and activation of additional security measures, such as prohibiting any operations without physical presence or adding an authentication password. These measures may vary depending on the country and carrier policies.
Finally, Kaspersky emphasizes that the security measures implemented on WhatsApp are not sufficient if the devices themselves are infected with malware. Therefore, the company recommends installing a comprehensive protection solution like Kaspersky Premium on all devices.
