How criminals are taking control of your WhatsApp account

Mobile network operator MTN has recently issued a warning over the rise in WhatsApp hacking in South Africa, which sees criminals taking over users' WhatsApp accounts.

According to BusinessTech, WhatsApp is the most widely used instant messaging platform in South Africa, with more than 28.8-million users nationwide.

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BusinessTech reports that this is much higher than any competitor.

Of course, due to the high number of users, WhatsApp has become the perfect platform for scammers to target potential victims.

MTN warned that criminals are now gaining access to users' WhatsApp accounts through various methods, such as SIM swap fraud, phishing, and public Wi-Fi attacks.

The aim is to gain access to personal information or to steal money.

Here's how you can prevent WhatsApp hacking

Users are advised to turn on two-step verification, adding a second layer of protection requiring a PIN and the verification code.

This helps prevent unauthorised access even if someone has your verification code.

MTN cautioned users not to click suspicious links or download files from unknown sources.

"Do not click on suspicious links or download files from unknown sources," MTN said.

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Users were also warned not to share their six-digit WhatsApp verification code with anyone, as scammers can use it to hack into their accounts.

Public Wi-Fi networks can expose user data to attackers. MTN advised avoiding WhatsApp and other sensitive transactions on unsecured networks.

"Avoid accessing WhatsApp or entering sensitive information while connected to unsecured networks," MTN said.

To avoid fake apps that might steal your information, MTN recommended downloading WhatsApp only from trusted app stores like Google Play Store, Huawei AppGallery, or Apple App Store.

"Download WhatsApp only from official sources like Google Play Store, Huawei AppGallery or Apple App Store to avoid fake apps that might steal your information," MTN added.

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Regularly updating phones' operating systems and apps ensures the latest security controls are in place, reducing the risk of hackers exploiting vulnerabilities.

MTN advised using WhatsApp's fingerprint or face recognition lock feature to add another layer of security, ensuring no one can access WhatsApp even with physical access to the device.

The tips and advice in the article were provided by MTN, who urged South Africans to take these steps to protect their WhatsApp accounts from hacking attempts.

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