How to Avoid Them and What to Do if You Get Hacked
WhatsApp has established itself as one of the most popular messaging applications worldwide, with more than 2 billion active users. This vast user base makes the platform an attractive target for scammers and cybercriminals seeking to exploit vulnerabilities and the lack of caution of some users. Below, we explore the most common scams on WhatsApp, how you can avoid them, and what steps you should take if your account is hacked.
Common Types of WhatsApp Scams
One of the most common scams on WhatsApp is phishing. In this case, scammers send messages that appear to come from a trusted source, such as a well-known company or even WhatsApp, requesting personal information or redirecting you to fraudulent websites. These messages usually have an urgent tone to encourage immediate action.
Account verification fraud is another common scam. Here, criminals send you a message posing as someone on WhatsApp, asking you to share a verification code they have sent you. With this code, scammers can access your account, blocking you and taking full control.
There are also fake prizes and sweepstakes, where messages inform you that you have won a prize, but you need to provide personal information or pay a fee to claim it. These messages are deceptive and seek to take advantage of people's emotion when receiving supposedly good news.
Fake tech support scams are another type of fraud. Criminals pose as WhatsApp technical support representatives, requesting access to your account or personal information with the excuse of solving a non-existent technical problem.
Finally, payment scams often involve requests for money from known contacts whose account has been compromised, or from unknown numbers who trick you into believing it is an emergency, asking for immediate transfers.
How to Avoid Scams on WhatsApp
- To avoid falling for these scams, it is crucial not to share your WhatsApp verification code with anyone. WhatsApp will never ask you for this code, and sharing it can give scammers access to your account.
- Activating two-step verification is a very effective additional security measure. This feature adds an extra layer of protection by requiring a PIN that you set up each time you try to register your phone number on a new device. You can activate this option by going to “Settings”, then “Account” and finally “Two-Step Verification”.
- It is important to be wary of suspicious messages. If a message seems too good to be true or asks for personal information, verify authenticity before taking any action. Don't click on suspicious links, as they could direct you to phishing sites looking to steal your information.
- Keep your application updated. App updates often include important security patches that can protect you against known vulnerabilities.
- Additionally, set your profile privacy so that only your contacts can see your profile photo, status, and last time online. This can limit the amount of information scammers can use against you.
What to do if your WhatsApp Account is Hacked
If your WhatsApp account is hacked, it is crucial to act immediately to regain control. The first thing you should do is uninstall and reinstall WhatsApp on your device. During installation, you will be asked to enter your phone number and the verification code sent via SMS. This process should allow you to regain access to your account.
If you cannot recover your account through this method, contact WhatsApp support. Send an email to [email protected] with a detailed description of the problem, including any suspicious messages you have received and the actions you have taken so far.
Inform your contacts that your account has been hacked so that they ignore any suspicious messages they may receive from your number. This can prevent your friends and family from falling into the same traps.
At Control Terrestre, we care about your security and want you to enjoy a safe and worry-free digital experience. Staying informed and following recommended security practices can significantly reduce the risk of falling victim to these scams.