WhatsApp, along with being a messaging app, is also a platform where people exchange work files, make business deals, send payments and store years of personal conversations.
However, the travel of sensitive information in the platform has made it an easy target for cybercriminals.
The recent cases of WhatsApp hacks on two prominent political leaders; Shiv Sena’s Shaina NC and BJP’s Sambit Patra has increased the attention on WhatsApp security.
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WhatsApp scams
News 18 reported that Security researchers say that hackers can rarely break WhatsApp’s end-to-end encryption and instead, attackers exploit human behaviour, depend on phishing links, fake customer care calls, SIM swapping and stolen verification codes to gain access to accounts.
WhatsApp’s new feature of rolling out usernames could create fresh opportunities for online fraud, according to experts. Scammers can create usernames that resemble genuine individuals, businesses or organisations.
By changing a letter, adding a number or inserting extra characters, fake profiles can appear convincing enough to fool users.
Security features
Four security features are crucial to prevent WhatsApp account hacking.
Passkeys: Passkeys replace SMS-based verification with your phone’s built-in authentication system, including Face ID, Touch ID or fingerprint recognition. Since passkeys remain linked to your device instead, they are significantly more difficult for cybercriminals to steal through phishing or other online scams.
Recovery Email: WhatsApp allows users to connect a verified email address to their account. This acts as a recovery option if you lose access to your SIM card, change your phone number or cannot receive SMS verification codes while travelling.
Two-Step Verification: Another important safeguard is WhatsApp’s two-step verification feature. Users must enter a six-digit PIN whenever their phone number is registered on another device. Even if criminals obtain the SMS verification code, they cannot complete the login process without this additional PIN.
Biometrics: Biometric lock, such as Face ID, fingerprint provides protection even after someone gets hold of your phone. It prevents unauthorised access to chats, documents, photos and other personal information stored inside the app.
These features only take a few minutes to set up, but they can help protect your conversations, documents and information.
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FAQs
1) Which two political figures became victims of WhatsApp hack?
Shiv Sena leader Shaina NC and BJP MP Sambit Patra became victims of WhatsApp hacks.
2) Which security features can help prevent scammers on WhatsApp?
Passkeys, two-step verification, recovery email and biometric locks are very helpful in preventing scammers on WhatsApp.
