Despite being a secure platform with end-to-end encryption, users need to be aware of signs of hacking to protect their WhatsApp accounts.
In this article, we will highlight the top five signs that your WhatsApp has been hacked and what to do to recover and protect your account.
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Below are the most common signs that indicate your account may be compromised:
1. Strange activity on WhatsApp
A dangerous sign that your account has been hacked is noticing unusual activity, such as:
Unread messages marked as read: This indicates that someone chinese overseas america database else may be accessing and checking your conversations.
Sending messages you didn't send: Check for messages from friends reporting strange content sent from your account.
Receiving unsolicited verification codes: These codes are used to log into WhatsApp on another device. If you receive them without having requested them, this is a warning.
Unknown contacts and conversations: Hacked WhatsApp accounts often contain contacts or messages from friends you haven't added or sent to.
It is advisable to monitor your activity regularly to quickly identify any anomalous behavior.
2. Unknown devices connected
WhatsApp allows you to use it on multiple devices through the “Linked Devices” feature. Hackers can link your account to an unknown device to access your messages and information.
To check:
Enter WhatsApp.
Click the three dots in the top right corner and go to Settings > Connected Devices .
Identify devices you don't recognize and disconnect them immediately.
This functionality is designed for ease of use, but can be a vulnerable point if not monitored.
3. Profile changes
One of the signs of a WhatsApp hack is the modification of profile information. This includes:
Changing your profile picture.
Modification of biography or name.
Automatic messages sent to your contacts requesting sensitive information.
These changes indicate that other people may be trying to impersonate you to commit scams or steal data. It’s a clear sign that your WhatsApp account has been compromised.
4. Poor phone performance
While it’s not a direct sign, poor performance on your phone could indicate that malicious apps are running in the background by hackers. Look out for:
Rapid battery drain: Excessive power consumption may be caused by spying or monitoring.
Overall device slowness: A phone that takes a long time to perform simple tasks could be being exploited by attackers.
Additionally, it is advisable to use security applications to detect and remove unwanted software.
5. Alerts coming from messages from friends
Sometimes friends or family members may be the first to notice something strange, such as someone sending you fake messages. These messages often ask for money, personal information, or contain suspicious links. A friend is often the one who can alert you to the problem.
If this happens, you need to act immediately to protect your account and prevent others from being harmed.