How to Recover a Hacked WhatsApp Account

March 26, 2024 By Christine Margret No Comments 6 minutes

WhatsApp is a leading global messaging platform, enabling seamless communication among users. Yet, the surge in hacking incidents threatens the security and privacy of accounts. If you suspect compromise, swift action is vital. Here, we outline steps on How to Recover a Hacked WhatsApp Account.

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Can WhatsApp be Hacked?

WhatsApp is considered as one of the most secure messaging apps, and your WhatsApp accounts are linked to phone numbers. Given that you’re the legitimate owner of your phone, you may wonder how someone could hack your WhatsApp.

When a user signs up for WhatsApp, they must verify their number, usually through a code sent via SMS. The crucial information a hacker seeks is this code—and one common method involves tricking you into revealing it.

They might impersonate someone trustworthy, persuading you to share the code under the guise of enhancing your safety. This constitutes a form of phishing.

Another tactic involves malware that infiltrates your phone, potentially granting access to all its contents. This malware can get into everything on your device. If your phone has this serious malware, there’s more to worry about than just one hacked app.

Other methods exist. Last year, reports emerged of WhatsApp Web users falling prey to URL phishing. Scammers crafted counterfeit WhatsApp Web pages, directing victims to phishing sites housing authentic QR codes from the official WhatsApp page. Subsequently, upon seizing access, scammers prompt victims’ contacts to transfer money to a specified account.

How to Know If My WhatsApp Account is Hacked?

Knowing if your WhatsApp account is hacked is the first step to solving the problem. Look out for these signs:

Firstly, unusual activity such as receiving messages from unknown contacts or seeing messages you didn’t send could indicate a hack. Also, if you notice changes in your account settings that you didn’t make, it’s a warning sign.
Another clue is discovering unknown devices linked to your account. WhatsApp notifies you when your account is used on a new device. If you receive such a message without your action, it’s a red flag. Check your Linked Devices in Settings and log out of any unfamiliar ones.
Lastly, if you can’t access your account suddenly or receive notifications about it being registered on a new device without your knowledge, it’s a clear sign that something’s wrong.

How to Recover a Hacked WhatsApp Account

Dealing with a hacked WhatsApp account can be frustrating, but immediate action is essential. Here’s how to recover your hacked WhatsApp account:

Open WhatsApp on your device and verify your phone number to regain access.
Enter the 6-digit verification code sent via SMS and log in.
If the hacker enabled two-step verification and you don’t know the PIN code, wait 7 days to sign in without it. During this time, the hacker will be logged out of your account.
Once you regain access, reset your security settings to prevent future breaches.

What to Do If My WhatsApp Account is Hacked?

Discovering that your WhatsApp account has been hacked can be alarming, but there are steps you can take to regain control. Here’s what to do if your WhatsApp is hacked:

Firstly, report the incident to WhatsApp support immediately. Their customer service is efficient and can assist you promptly. Additionally, consider taking legal action against the hacker for exploiting your data.

Next, notify your contacts about the breach. It’s crucial to inform them quickly, as the hacker may misuse your account. Reach out via social media, messages, or calls to alert everyone of the situation.

If you’re unable to regain access to your account, consider deleting it. Deleting your WhatsApp account ensures that all data associated with it is removed, preventing further access by the hacker. Remember, simply deleting the application won’t suffice; you must delete the account to safeguard your information.

Protecting Your WhatsApp Account from Hacking

While recovering a hacked WhatsApp account is possible, it’s essential to remain vigilant against potential hacks. Take these measures to safeguard your account and prevent unauthorized access to your personal data:

1. Secure your WhatsApp and phone with biometric authentication:

Utilize Face ID or fingerprint lock features to protect both your WhatsApp application and your device.

2. Activate two-step verification on WhatsApp:

Create a PIN code required for logging in on new devices. Access it through Settings > Account > Two-step verification.

3. Deactivate your WhatsApp account if your phone is lost or stolen:

Act promptly to prevent unauthorized usage by deactivating your account immediately.

4. Keep the 6-digit registration code confidential:

Refrain from sharing this code with anyone to prevent unauthorized access.

5. Remove unfamiliar devices linked to your account:

Check for unknown devices under Settings > Linked devices, and remove any unrecognized ones.

6. Report suspicious activities and avoid clicking on suspicious links:

Stay vigilant against suspicious chats and refrain from clicking on any dubious links to maintain WhatsApp account security.

I Cannot Recover My Hacked WhatsApp Account- What To Do Now?

If you fail to gain access to your WhatsApp account, try following these steps:

Remove the WhatsApp application from your device.
Visit the Play Store and reinstall the app.
Open the application and verify your phone number, ensuring you have the SIM card associated with the hacked number.
WhatsApp will send a six-digit code via SMS to your phone number.
Enter the received six-digit code to log into your account, which will automatically log out the hacker.
If prompted for a two-step verification code that you didn’t set up, it indicates the hacker may have activated it. In such cases, wait for 7 days before signing in without the verification code.
Note that once you log in with the SMS code, the hacker is immediately logged out, preventing further unauthorized access to your account and conversations with your contacts.

Conclusion -Recover a Hacked WhatsApp Account

Safeguarding your WhatsApp account is crucial as it holds sensitive information that can be misused if hacked. Implementing measures like two-step verification and keeping your PIN confidential are essential steps in preventing unauthorized access. By staying vigilant and proactive, you can protect your account from potential breaches and ensure the security of your personal data. Follow our detailed guide on How to Recover a Hacked WhatsApp Account, and stay safe while using your favorite messaging app.