WhatsApp OTP Scam: With WhatsApp account hacking becoming more common, personal information is increasingly at risk.
If your account is compromised, stay calm and take quick action. Here’s how you can safely recover your hacked WhatsApp account.
WhatsApp OTP Scam: Signs Your Account Has Been Hacked
WhatsApp is the most widely used messaging app globally, but it’s also a target for cybercriminals.
A recent scam is tricking people into revealing their OTPs, which hackers use to gain control of WhatsApp accounts.
This scam typically starts with a message from a familiar contact. The message may say, “A code was sent to your number by mistake, please share it quickly.”
If you send the six-digit code, hackers gain access to your account, locking you out. They then use your identity to scam others.
Here’s how you can avoid falling for this scam and protect your account.
How WhatsApp Gets Hacked
The scam starts with a seemingly harmless message from a friend or family member. The message claims that a six-digit code was mistakenly sent to your number, asking you to share it.
Unknowingly, you may share the WhatsApp verification OTP, which hackers use to register your account on their phone.
Once the code is shared, your WhatsApp account is in their control, and you’re logged out. The scammer will then target others from your contact list.
Signs Your WhatsApp Has Been Hacked
There are clear indicators that your WhatsApp account may have been compromised:
You receive an unexpected WhatsApp verification code via SMS.
A friend or relative contacts you, claiming they mistakenly sent a code to your number.
You’re suddenly logged out of WhatsApp and can’t log back in.
How to Avoid WhatsApp Hacking
To protect yourself from these cyberattacks, take these necessary precautions:
Never Share Your OTP: WhatsApp OTPs are for your use only—sharing them can compromise your account.
Enable Two-Step Verification: Go to ‘Settings > Account > Two-step verification’ on WhatsApp to set up a secure 6-digit PIN.
Avoid Suspicious Messages: Don’t click on unknown links or respond to strange messages. Report them immediately.
Check Linked Devices: In WhatsApp’s ‘Linked Devices’ section, see if any unfamiliar devices are connected. Disconnect them right away.
Verify Messages by Phone: If you receive a suspicious message from a friend or relative, confirm it by calling them instead of replying on WhatsApp.
What to Do If Your WhatsApp Account Is Hacked
If your account gets hacked, don’t panic—take these steps immediately:
Reinstall WhatsApp: Uninstall and reinstall the app. Log in with your number and enter the new OTP to remove the hacker’s access.
Contact WhatsApp Support: If you can’t recover your account, file a complaint with WhatsApp’s Grievance Channel for recovery.
Alert Your Contacts: Inform your friends and family that your account may have been compromised, and ask them to ignore any suspicious messages.
Report to Cyber Crime Helpline: In India, call the Cyber Crime Helpline at 1930 or file an online complaint at cybercrime.gov.in.
