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WhatsApp account hacked? Here's how to quickly recover it
27 Sep 2024

WhatsApp, the popular messaging platform, has outlined steps for users to reclaim their accounts in case of unauthorized access.

This security measure involves verification through a six-digit SMS code or two-step verification.

The company has issued these guidelines to protect users' private data and contacts from potential threats.

Unauthorized access or "stolen" accounts refer to situations where an individual gains control of a user's WhatsApp account without their consent.

Identifying signs of account being compromised
Detection

A 'stolen' WhatsApp account can be identified by certain signs.

These include contacts receiving messages that the user did not send, and seeing status updates or posts in groups that they did not create.

In some cases, another person may be using the account from a desktop or WhatsApp Web that was previously connected to.

If these signs are present, it's likely that the user's account has been compromised.

Common methods used to steal accounts
Tactics

There are several methods that hackers use to gain unauthorized access to WhatsApp accounts. These include SIM swapping, phishing scams, malware attacks, and using unsecured Wi-Fi networks.

A compromised account can lead to exposure of private chats and sensitive information, putting both the user and their contacts at risk.

In response to this threat, WhatsApp has provided guidelines on how users can reclaim their 'stolen' accounts.

Steps to reclaim your stolen account
Recovery

To reclaim a stolen account, users should sign into WhatsApp with their phone number and verify it by entering the six-digit code received via SMS.

Upon entering this code, any individual using the account without authorization will be automatically logged out.

In some cases, users may also be asked to provide a two-step verification code.

If you don't know this code, it indicates that the unauthorized user might have enabled two-step verification on the account.

Waiting period and final recovery step
Restoration

If the two-step verification code is unknown, users must wait seven days before they can sign in without it.

Regardless of whether this verification code is known or not, the unauthorized individual will be logged out of the account once the six-digit SMS code is entered.

This final step ensures that control of the account is returned to its rightful owner, thereby safeguarding their private data and contacts.