WhatsApp users in UAE warned of hacking risks: How to secure your account
Cybercriminals look for WhatsApp accounts and use various methods to gain access to them
Dubai: Messaging app users in the UAE are being warned to be vigilant about the security of their WhatsApp accounts as cybercriminals are increasingly targeting the platform for illicit activities, according to a leading cybersecurity expert.
Hackers can use compromised accounts for various criminal purposes, including spam distribution and complex scam schemes, said Seifallah Jedidi, Head of Consumer Channel, META, at Kaspersky.
Here’s how they do it:
Cybercriminals employ two primary methods to gain unauthorised access to WhatsApp accounts. One approach involves leveraging the ‘Linked devices’ feature to add another device to an existing account. In this scenario, the legitimate user may remain unaware that the attacker is also accessing their conversations.
The second method involves re-registering the WhatsApp account on the criminal’s device, effectively locking the original user out of their account.
“Messengers are a private space, as they often contain personal information about our lives and relationships with family and friends. They can also contain information about work and, in some cases, confidential information,” said Jedidi.
“If you notice any unusual activity, such as receiving replies to messages you didn’t send, or if your friends complain about strange messages coming from your account, it’s important to protect your privacy immediately,” Jedidi added.
To safeguard their WhatsApp accounts from potential hacking, users are advised to implement the following key security measures:
Enable two-step verification: Activate this feature in WhatsApp settings (Settings → Account → Two-step verification) and remember the six-digit PIN you create, as it’s different from the one-time code.
Never share your PIN or one-time codes: Scammers only request these details.
Consider using passkeys: WhatsApp recently introduced support for passkeys (Settings → Account → Passkeys). This secure option uses biometric authentication and stores a long cryptographic key instead of PIN codes. However, be mindful of its convenience if you frequently switch devices between Android and iOS.
Set up a backup email address: Ensure you have a recovery email linked to your account (Settings → Account → Email address).
Strengthen your email security: If you’ve already added an email address, ensure your email account has a strong, unique password. Consider using a password manager like Kaspersky Password Manager for secure storage.
Enable two-factor authentication for your email: This adds an extra layer of security to your email account.
Be wary of SIM swap scams: Contact your mobile carrier, preferably in person, to confirm that no unauthorised SIM cards have been issued for your number. Also, check for any suspicious call-forwarding settings. Inquire about additional security measures for your SIM card, such as requiring your physical presence or an extra password for SIM-related actions.
Jedidi also said that measures within WhatsApp are most effective when the device is protected from malware. They recommend installing comprehensive security solutions on all devices. By taking these proactive steps, WhatsApp users in the UAE can significantly reduce their risk of falling victim to cybercriminals and ensure the security of their personal and professional communications.
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