(CTN News) – The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) has warned the public that incidences of hacking into citizens’ WhatsApp accounts have grown, with hackers focusing on women’s accounts.
According to an FIA official, fraudsters obtain access to women’s WhatsApp accounts and use their personal information, including chats, photographs, and videos, for extortion and blackmail.
The official underlined that fraudsters are employing new tactics to get unauthorized access to WhatsApp accounts, such as phishing and social engineering. Phishing refers to fraudulent messages that trick users into disclosing personal information or clicking on dangerous links.
The source noted that hacked accounts might be used to spread improper content and commit fraud. The FIA recommended using the two-step verification process in WhatsApp settings, which adds an extra layer of security to prevent unauthorized access to the account.
The FIA further recommended that consumers not open messages or media files sent from unknown numbers, as they may contain links or files that could destroy software or allow access to data. The official recommended that WhatsApp privacy settings be reviewed and updated regularly to limit access to personal information.
Individuals were also urged to contact WhatsApp support to restore control of their accounts and adopt necessary security measures. They were asked to notify close friends, family members, and colleagues to avoid potential fraud.
Safety Tips to Prevent WhatsApp Hacking
- Enable Two-Step Verification: Make your WhatsApp account more secure.
- Avoid Unknown Messages: Be cautious when opening messages or media files from unknown numbers since they may contain harmful links or files.
- Update Privacy Settings: To limit access to your personal information, regularly review and update your privacy settings on WhatsApp.
What to Do If Your WhatsApp Account Is Hacked
Upon receiving notification that your WhatsApp account has been hacked, contact the FIA helpline at 1991 or visit the nearest FIA circle immediately. Additionally, contact WhatsApp to help you regain control of your account and inform your close contacts to prevent potential fraud.
