WhatsApp is the most widely used messaging platform globally, and it’s not immune to hacking attempts. Continue reading to understand more about these WhatsApp hacks, how to identify if your account has been hacked, and the measures you can take to get it back.

Can a WhatsApp account get hacked? 

The short answer: Yes. 

However, unlike other platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Google where users can log in with passwords, WhatsApp accounts are tied to a phone number. Since you’re the legitimate owner of your phone, how can someone hack your WhatsApp?

When someone signs up to use WhatsApp, they are required to verify their number, such as via a code sent to their phone by SMS. The key information a hacker would need is this code—and a common way they would get it is by tricking you into telling them.

They could pretend to be someone else and convince you that you need to tell them the code sent to you for your own safety and security. This would be a form of phishing.

Another way to get your code might be via malware that gains access to everything on your phone. Although admittedly, if you’ve got serious malware like this on your phone, you have a lot more to worry about that one hacked app.

There are other ways. Late last year, it was reported that those using WhatsApp Web fell victim to a URL phishing attempt where scammers created a fake version of the legitimate WhatsApp Web page. The links took them to a phishing site that embedded a genuine QR code extracted from the official WhatsApp page. Once they’ve gained access to their victims’ accounts, they ask their victims’ contacts to transfer money to a bank account.

How do I know that my WhatsApp account has been hacked?

Recognizing when your WhatsApp account has been hacked is the first step in fixing the issue. Here are some telltale signs that your account may have been compromised:

1. Random and unusual activity

Receiving WhatsApp messages from people you don’t recognize? Or seeing messages that you supposedly wrote but don’t remember anything about it? These can all be signs that your WhatsApp account has been used on another person’s device. Another sign is if you’re noticing changes to your WhatsApp account settings that you don’t remember setting or changing.

2. You find unknown linked devices on your account

WhatsApp alerts you when your account is being registered on a new device, so if you receive such a notification without initiating it, it’s a clear indication that someone might be trying to hack into your account. 

To check if an unknown device has been linked to your account on your smartphone, tap on the Settings button. Once there, tap on Linked Devices to see a list of places where your account can be accessed. If you see a device you’re unsure about, log out of it immediately.

3. You’re unable to access your account

WhatsApp alerts you when your account is being registered on a new device. If you receive such a notification without initiating it, that’s a clear sign of a problem.

What do I do if my WhatsApp account has been hacked?

If you suspect your WhatsApp account has been hacked, it’s best to act immediately to get it back. Follow the steps below:

Verify your account

Start by verifying your phone number on WhatsApp. Install the app on your phone and enter your phone number. WhatsApp will send you a verification code via SMS to confirm it’s you. Once you enter this code, the hacker will automatically be logged out of your account, as WhatsApp only allows one phone number per account at a time.

If you have access to WhatsApp on your phone and suspect that someone could be using your account on WhatsApp web or the desktop app, you can check by going to Settings > Linked Devices. Any linked devices will be listed. You may remove them by selecting the device and tapping Log Out.

Inform your contacts that your account was compromised, advising them to ignore any suspicious messages they may have received from your number during the period of the hack. If you’re struggling to get back into your account, use another messaging service to let them know instead.

This is the main thing you can do to regain your account once it’s been hacked. The following steps are precautionary measures to protect your account further:

Set up two-factor authentication or change your pin

If you had previously set up two-step verification, enter your PIN to access your account. If you didn’t set this up before and can access your account, do it immediately. 

Go to WhatsApp Settings > Account > Two-step verification > Enable. You’ll be prompted to create a four-digit pin. Occasionally, WhatsApp will ask you to enter your PIN to verify that it’s you.

Review your account security

Check your account settings to ensure the hacker has made no changes. Pay special attention to linked devices and remove any you don’t recognize. While you’re reviewing your settings, consider adjusting your privacy settings as well, like who can see your profile photo, last seen, and status updates.

[Optional] Block your SIM card

If you can’t regain access to your WhatsApp account, call your mobile service provider to block your SIM card and get a new SIM card with the same number. You’ll then have to re-register for a WhatsApp account, which will automatically deactivate the account on the other device. 

Unfortunately, according to their resource page, WhatsApp cannot deactivate or delete an account remotely.