Meta-owned WhatsApp is end-to-end encrypted, meaning that your messages are stored on your device and only you and the person you're communicating with can read them. However, like all applications connected to the internet, there are always some security vulnerabilities that can be exploited by nefarious individuals.

WhatsApp boasts features such as two-factor authentication which help keep your data safe and secure, but if you think your account has been compromised, it is important to take action immediately.

What not to do

WhatsApp is a secure messaging platform, but it's important to be careful about who you share the information with - including your SMS verification code.

If someone gets a hold of your phone, they could use your WhatsApp account without your permission, allowing them complete access to your messages, and contacts, and even send and receive messages on your behalf.

Furthermore, If you receive an email asking you to reset your two-step registration code or verification PIN without requesting it, do not click on the link as it means someone is trying to access your WhatsApp account without your consent or knowledge.

Signs to look out for

If you're worried that your WhatsApp account has been breached, here are some signs to look out for:

  • You're receiving strange messages or calls from unknown numbers
  • Your account is logging in from unexpected locations
  • There are changes to your contact list that you didn't make
  • Your chat history is disappearing
  • You're being asked to re-verify your account
  • Your account was used to send spam messages to your contacts
  • Your profile picture has been changed
  • The last seen time for your WhatsApp is different from when you last used it

How to find out if someone is spying on your WhatsApp account?

First, check your WhatsApp Web history to see if there are any unfamiliar logins. If you see any logins from unknown devices or locations, someone is likely accessing your account without your knowledge.

You can also check your WhatsApp chat history to see if there are any conversations that you don't remember having. If you see any suspicious activity, it's possible that someone is reading your messages or even impersonating you in conversations.

Read more

Check via Whatsapp Web

Check your WhatsApp Web activity log and look for suspicious logins. To do this, open WhatsApp and go to the WhatsApp Web menu. Here you should see a list of all the devices that have been logged into your account. If you see a device that you don't recognize using, someone may be accessing your account without your knowledge.

Lastly, if you're concerned that your WhatsApp account has been compromised, the best course of action is to enable two-factor authentication as this will help prevent anyone from accessing it without your permission.

WhatsApp
UNSPLASH
WhatsApp