How to Check & What to Do if Your WhatsApp Account is Hacked

It can be pretty scary to think about someone snooping on your WhatsApp without your knowledge. If you’re asking yourself how to know if my WhatsApp is hacked, you’ve come to the right place. In this guide, we’ll cover the signs to look out for and share what to do if your WhatsApp account is hacked.

Everything Discussed in This Article in Under a Minute

• WhatsApp accounts can be hacked through phishing messages, verification code scams, SIM swapping, and malicious links.
• Signs of a compromised account include unusual logins, messages sent without your knowledge, unexpected verification codes, unfamiliar group activity, etc.
• Immediate actions include logging out of unknown devices, enabling two-step verification, re-registering your number, scanning for malware, removing suspicious apps, and, if necessary, factory resetting the phone.
• Monitoring linked devices regularly helps detect unauthorized access.
• Protect your account with strong, unique passwords, two-step verification, and careful handling of verification codes.
• Proactive vigilance prevents privacy breaches, personal information loss, identity theft, and financial fraud.

Understanding WhatsApp Security

Over 2 billion people use WhatsApp for daily communication, making data and privacy security essential. The app provides various ways to keep users’ messages and chats private. 

End-to-end encryption (E2EE) ensures only the sender and receiver read or listen to what is sent. The messages are encoded on the sender’s device and decoded on the recipient’s. This is a measure to stop snooping, and not even WhatsApp has access to the content of those messages. 

Two-factor verification is another way to secure your WhatsApp account. This feature requires you to enter a six-digit PIN when registering your phone number with WhatsApp.

How to Hack WhatsApp – Understanding the Techniques Used by Hackers

Before you can truly protect your WhatsApp account, it’s important to understand how to hack a WhatsApp and the techniques hackers use to break in. Knowing the methods they rely on gives you a better idea of the vulnerabilities you need to safeguard against.

Here are some common techniques hackers use when figuring out how to hack into someone’s WhatsApp:

i. Phishing Attacks

Phishing is a cyber attack technique in which the attacker impersonates a legitimate entity and targets individuals with fraudulent messages or website links that appear trustworthy. The individuals are tricked into downloading attachments that contain spyware or clicking on malicious links. This leads them to login pages and prompts them to provide personal data. 

A phishing attack lures an individual to divulge sensitive information by first gaining trust and then creating a sense of urgency. This information includes usernames, passwords, and financial details, which can then be used for identity theft, snooping into personal data, financial fraud, and unauthorized access.

WhatsApp users can face phishing attacks in the form of deceptive messages or calls that appear to come from their trusted contacts or official sources.

ii. Social Engineering

Social engineering is an umbrella term for malicious activities involving human interactions. It is a psychological manipulation technique that makes individuals divulge confidential information or perform actions that compromise security.

On WhatsApp, attackers pose as trusted contacts or legal entities and trick individuals into sharing their login credentials or verification codes. For example, an attacker might disguise themselves as WhatsApp support and request verification codes sent via SMS. Once obtained, the attacker can access and take control of the user’s WhatsApp account.

iii. Physical Access

Modern cell phones are not just devices but hold almost all a user’s personal information. Physical access by a stranger to a user’s phone poses significant security risks. The stranger can install WhatsApp spyware software and manipulate settings to gain control over the device. Therefore, it becomes easy to access sensitive information, including personal messages, photos, and even financial data.

With physical access, the stranger can directly view WhatsApp messages and export chat history. If your WhatsApp is tapped, bad actors can easily access current and future messages, photos, media, and documents. The stranger may even enable cloud backups and sync WhatsApp data to their own devices.

iv. Sim Card Swapping

SIM card swapping, or SIM hijacking, is a method in which a scammer transfers a victim’s phone number to a new SIM card. First, the scammer gathers as much information about the victim as possible through phishing or social engineering. The scammer then contacts the cellular network as the victim and convinces them to transfer the phone number to a new SIM card.

Once the phone number is transferred, the scammer inserts the new SIM card into their phone. They can install WhatsApp and request a verification code, which is then sent to the hijacked phone number. Once the verification is done, opening the WhatsApp account gives access to messages, calls, contacts, media files, and documents. 

v. WhatsApp Web

Spying on WhatsApp is also possible by exploiting the web version of the app. To use WhatsApp web, users need to scan a QR code that appears on the web service. Hackers can take a QR code from WhatsApp web and insert it on a malicious page. If the user scans the fake code using WhatsApp, the hacker can get the login information and hack into the account. 

How to Know if My WhatsApp is Hacked – 8 Clear Signs

When a user’s WhatsApp gets hacked, there are clear signs to watch for. Here are the things you should keep an eye out for if you think your WhatsApp is linked to another phone:

a. Unusual Activity

WhatsApp shows notifications for every new message or call that you have not checked. If your WhatsApp is tapped, it will result in unusual activity and possible spying. You need to be wary if you notice the following instances.

• Messages are marked as ‘read,’ and you have not opened or checked them, as well as messages that are sent, but you never typed.
• People in your contacts are getting strange messages or links that seem to come from you.
• A new contact has been added to the list that you do not recognize.
• Sudden changes in your WhatsApp account settings, such as profile photo, last seen, and privacy.

b. Battery Drain

Almost all WhatsApp spyware applications run in the background. These tools run continuously, capturing data, monitoring activities, and transmitting them to remote servers through a network connection. All this activity requires processing power, battery, and network usage, which leads to noticeable battery drain.  

c. Data Usage

The WhatsApp spyware software discreetly captures the smartphone’s data, such as calls, messages, multimedia activity, and GPS location, and sends it to a remote server. The continuous data transmission consumes bandwidth, leading to unexpected hikes and an apparent increase in data usage.

d. Unrecognized Devices on WhatsApp Web

WhatsApp allows a user to link their account to a computer. However, it is a security concern if you see unrecognized devices linked to your WhatsApp web. It shows that someone else has gained access to your WhatsApp account from another location.

e. Frequent App Crashes

A WhatsApp hacking program running in the background consumes the cell phone’s resources and causes it to crash frequently. Also, an attacker who has gained access to a WhatsApp account can snoop and control other things on the mobile device. Access to the phone can also be used for things like crypto mining. 

f. Changes to Your Settings

If you notice a change in WhatsApp profile settings that you did not apply, it’s a sign that your WhatsApp account has been hacked. Some signs include unfamiliar profile pictures, modified status messages, and altered privacy settings. Sudden activation of two-factor verification that you did not set up yourself is another cause of concern.

g. Unexpected Verification Messages

If you randomly start receiving SMS notifications from WhatsApp with verification codes or about device changes that you did not initiate, it strongly indicates that someone is trying to access your account. Since hackers often trigger codes repeatedly to take control of your number, you must tread cautiously when faced with such a situation.

h. Suspicious Group Activity

Hackers may add your account to unknown WhatsApp groups to spread spam or phishing links. Therefore, if you notice unfamiliar group chats or messages being sent automatically to multiple contacts, this indicates that your account has been compromised.

What to Do if Your WhatsApp Account is Hacked – 7 Essential Steps to Take

Now that you’re aware of the techniques used in how to hack someone’s WhatsApp, let’s go over the 7 things you should do if your WhatsApp account gets hacked to secure your data and regain control.

1. Change Passwords

Here are the steps to secure WhatsApp and associated accounts: 

WhatsApp:

If you suspect your WhatsApp two-factor verification (2FA) code has been compromised, you can reset it by following these steps. The same steps apply if you haven’t enabled 2FA yet.

i. Click the three dots on the top right, and then tap Settings.

ii. Now click on Account and then select Two-factor verification. If you have already enabled 2FA, enter your existing code. If not, create a new 6-digit PIN. You will need this PIN to verify your phone number with WhatsApp in the future. Make sure to write down this PIN, as you won’t be able to recover your account without it if lost.

Google Account (for WhatsApp backup on Android):

i. Visit your Google Account in the browser.

ii. Navigate to the Security tab on the left-hand side. Under the “How You Sign Into Google Section” section, click Password.

iii. Enter your existing password to verify yourself.

iv. Enter a strong new password and then click Change Password to confirm changes. 

Apple ID (for WhatsApp Backup on iOS):

i. Go to your iPhone’s Settings. From there, open Apple ID settings and select Sign In & Security. Then tap Change Password to begin changing your password.

ii. Enter your current Apple ID password. You will then be prompted to set a new, strong password.

2. Log Out of All Sessions

Open WhatsApp on your phone, click the three dots (menu icon) in the top right corner, and select Linked Devices. You’ll see a list of all devices currently logged into your account here. Tap on each device and select “Log out” to disconnect. This action will terminate all active sessions if WhatsApp is linked to another phone and prevent unauthorized access. 

3. Re-Register Your WhatsApp Account

If a hacker has taken control of your WhatsApp account, you can regain access by re-registering your phone number. 

When you verify your phone number again on your device, WhatsApp automatically logs the account out from any other device where it is currently active. Ultimately, this helps remove unauthorized access and restores control of the account to you.

But remember that if the attacker has enabled two-step verification, WhatsApp may ask for the PIN. In case you do not know the PIN, you may need to wait up to 7 days before signing in without it.

To re-register your WhatsApp account:

i. Install and open WhatsApp on your phone.

ii. Enter the phone number linked to your WhatsApp in the registration screen and tap Next.

iii. Upon receiving the 6-digit verification code, enter it to verify your identity.

iv. Once the verification is successful, other active sessions will automatically log out from any other devices.

v. After regaining access, review your account settings and check linked devices to prevent further unauthorized access.

4. Scan for Malware

Use a reliable mobile security application like Avast or McAfee to scan for malware. WhatsApp hacking apps are disguised as everyday tools like Calculators or Calendars. Scans can reveal them and the threats they cause. Regularly update the app and run full device scans to detect and remove malicious software. Additionally, avoid downloading files from unknown sources and clicking on suspicious links to maintain security.

5. Remove Suspicious Apps Manually

If you find suspicious activity on your mobile phone, you can check and remove the suspected applications manually. Here is how:

For Android:

Go to your phone’s Settings and select Apps or Application Manager. Scroll through the list to find the suspicious app, tap on the app, and select Uninstall.

For iOS:

If you find the suspicious app on your home screen, press and hold the app icon until it jiggles. Tap the “-” or Remove App, then select Delete App to confirm deletion.

Clear the Cache by opening the “Storage” tab in the settings. Restart your device to ensure changes take effect. Review and update your apps regularly to maintain device security.

6. Reset Your Phone to Factory Settings

Resetting your phone to factory settings is a last-resort option, but often an effective step if you suspect WhatsApp is compromised by hackers on your device. This action will erase all data, apps, and settings and return your phone to its original state. Please note that this data is not recoverable. Before proceeding, it is important to back up important data to avoid losing it permanently. 

For Android:

Go to Settings and select General Management. From here, tap Reset and choose Factory data reset. Finally, click Reset to confirm.

For iOS:

Go to Settings and open General. Then select Transfer or Reset iPhone. Tap Reset, which will restore the iPhone to the Default settings.

After resetting, reinstall apps and restore data cautiously. Consider enabling two-factor verification and using reputable security apps to prevent future breaches.

7. Contact Support

If your WhatsApp is compromised, reach out to WhatsApp support for assistance:

To contact WhatsApp Help Center, follow the steps below:

Open WhatsApp, and from the three dots on the top right, select Settings. Once in the settings section, tap Help and then Contact Us to report issues directly to the WhatsApp team.

Provide details such as account number and issue specifics for faster resolution. WhatsApp support aims to help users recover accounts and address security concerns promptly.

How to Protect Your WhatsApp from Hacking Attempts– 5 Essential Tips

Now that you have learned strategies hackers use when exploring how to hack WhatsApp, let’s look at 5 essential tips that can help protect your WhatsApp account and ensure your personal information stays secure.

i. Enable Two-Factor Verification

You can follow the steps we’ve discussed in the “Change Passwords” section above to enable Two-Factor verification.

ii. Regularly Update WhatsApp

Hackers continually search for and exploit WhatsApp weaknesses and vulnerabilities to access personal data, send spam, or spread malware. However, regular updates include fixes and patches for newly discovered vulnerabilities and security flaws. Furthermore, it improves encryption protocols, fixes bugs, introduces new features, and enhances overall app performance.

iii. Be Cautious with Links and Attachments

Phishing and malware are common ways hackers can get access to your WhatsApp account. 

Here is how you can avoid them:

• Avoid clicking on suspicious or unsolicited links. Always verify the source before clicking.
• Don’t download files from unknown contacts.
• Report suspicious messages and block unknown contacts.
• Avoid sharing sensitive information like passwords or bank details with anyone.

iv. Monitor Account Activity

Unauthorized access on WhatsApp is not uncommon and can happen to any user at any time. Here is what you need to do:

• Look for sent messages you didn’t send, check messages that you did not see, and new contacts you didn’t add.
• Check if your profile picture, status, or privacy settings have changed without your consent.
• Go to WhatsApp Web/Desktop settings to see active sessions. Notice the devices or locations you don’t recognize.

v. Avoid Public Wi-Fi

Public Wi-Fi networks are mostly unsecured, and hackers can easily intercept data transmitted over them. When you use public Wi-Fi, your messages, login credentials, and personal information can be exposed to scammers and cyberattackers. 

These can sneak in malicious programs that can capture sensitive information and potentially gain access to your WhatsApp account.

FAQs

What can happen if your WhatsApp account is hacked?

If your WhatsApp account is hacked, the attacker can gain access to your personal conversations, contacts, photos, videos, and shared documents. They may impersonate you and send messages to your contacts asking for money or sharing malicious links. In some cases, they may try to access other linked services or accounts through shared information. Eventually, this can lead to privacy violations, financial fraud, identity theft, and reputational damage.

How can I know someone is reading my WhatsApp messages?

You may suspect someone is reading your WhatsApp messages if you notice unusual signs on your account. For example, messages may appear as “read” even though you have not opened them, or replies may be sent from your account that you did not write. Another common sign is unfamiliar devices listed under Linked Devices in WhatsApp settings, indicating that someone has accessed your account through WhatsApp Web.

Who to contact when WhatsApp is hacked?

If your WhatsApp account is hacked, the first place to seek help from is the official support team of WhatsApp. Open the app and go to “Contact Us” through “Settings” to report the issue directly. If you cannot access your account, you can also visit the WhatsApp Help Center and submit a support request. Provide details such as your phone number and a brief description of the problem. In serious cases, you should also contact your mobile carrier and local cybercrime authorities to secure your number and prevent further misuse.

Can someone hack my WhatsApp without my phone?

Yes, hackers can attempt to access your account by sending phishing links, tricking you into sharing verification codes, performing SIM swap attacks, etc. They may also try to exploit WhatsApp Web by getting you to scan a malicious QR code. However, with two-step verification enabled and careful handling of verification codes, the risk of remote hacking can be significantly reduced.

Can WhatsApp be hacked through a verification code scam?

Yes, WhatsApp can be hacked through a verification code scam. In this scam, hackers trick you into sharing the 6-digit verification code sent by WhatsApp via SMS. To do so, they may pose as WhatsApp support and send phishing messages claiming there is an issue with your account. Once they have the code, they can register your number on another device and gain full access to your WhatsApp.