By Joseph Besong
WhatsApp accounts are not actually being hacked but are cloned, perpetrators use malware sent to you in the form of links when you open them and follow their instructions you land into trouble, but there is a solution to that.
How to protect your WhatsApp account
For all who are not yet aware, hacking of WhatsApp accounts is very common and rampant these days.
To keep your WhatsApp account safe, you would want to enable two-step verification under settings.
Also avoid opening random links, like free Netflix and free Amazon, or free Visa and all the like.
Furthermore, WhatsApp has implemented various security measures to protect user accounts and data. However, it is still possible for individuals to gain unauthorized access to someone’s WhatsApp account through methods such as:
Phishing: Hackers may attempt to trick users into divulging their login credentials by sending fake links or messages that appear to be from WhatsApp or a trusted source. These fraudulent messages often request personal information or direct users to enter their login details on a spoofed website.
Social Engineering: Hackers can exploit human psychology to manipulate individuals into revealing their account details or by tricking them into providing access to their devices. This can occur through tactics such as impersonation, pretexting, or even exploiting personal connections to gain access to confidential information.
Spyware and Malware: Hackers may try to gain access to someone’s WhatsApp account through spyware or malware installed on the targeted user’s device. This malicious software can track keystrokes, steal login credentials, or remotely monitor device activity.
It is paramount to prioritize the security of your online accounts by following the best practices:
- Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) when available to provide an additional layer of security to your accounts.
- Regularly update your device’s operating system and applications to ensure you have the latest security patches.
- Be cautious when clicking on links or sharing personal information, especially in suspicious or unsolicited messages.
- Use strong and unique passwords for each of your online accounts.
- Be aware of your device’s physical security and avoid leaving it unattended or in the hands of unauthorized individuals.
Cloning an account is to use a real person’s name, picture, and other information to duplicate that person’s social media profile.
But you don’t need to have your account taken over for someone to create a fake account under your name. As soon we apply all these steps, it will minimize the hacking or cloning of WhatsApp accounts in our community. A good number of hackers are Nigerians who target both individuals and groups. This is not to say other nationalities don’t engage in this illegal act. We just have to be careful and stay vigilant.
