New WhatsApp Scam Can Hijack And Delete Your Account

 WhatsApp is the most widely used messaging app and one of the most downloaded. 

While it is well-known for its privacy features and free international web calling, it is also well-known for including hackers and scammers who hack into the accounts of unsuspecting customers to steal data and even erase accounts.

When you read about cases of WhatsApp account hacking, you start to wonder if the messaging network is safe. Yes, WhatsApp is a secure platform. They provide end-to-end encryption for chats and phone conversations.

Aside from that, there are hackers and scammers using the network to hijack accounts, steal money, data, and other important material, with the most common attack being the takeover and deletion of WhatsApp accounts.

What is the mechanism behind this?

The hacker impersonates a WhatsApp technical support staff member and sends a message to the target on WhatsApp, telling them that "someone has recently established a WhatsApp account with their number" and they can't verify if the login is authentic.

The notification will then state that the user must verify in order for the WhatsApp Team to investigate an alert prompted by suspected login behavior.

A text message with a six-digit verification number will then be delivered to the target's phone, according to Panda Security. The hacker will next send the target another message.

"To verify root [SMS], we've sent you an identity verification request. If you fail to pass the verification procedure or quit the effort, you will be suspended indefinitely "The message is as follows:

The hacker will then request that the victim transmit the code or click on the SMS, after which the hacker will hijack and take control of the account, as well as destroy it if they so choose.

The Risks of Using Hacked WhatsApp Accounts

• The hacker can perform the following after your WhatsApp account has been hacked:
• They'll stay in your group conversations, where they'll be able to access sensitive information and maybe impersonate you.
• Pretend to be you and send messages to your friends and family.
• You can listen in on your chat and take personal information with you.
• Pretend to be you and scam your contacts for money.
• You should be able to view your contact list (including those in groups)
• The hacker can try the same six-digit code attack on your contacts if they have access to your phone's contact numbers.

How to Protect Yourself From WhatsApp Hackers and Scammers

WhatsApp users are advised not to share their passwords or SMS security codes with anybody. That is, friends and relatives are included. If the request looks to be from a legitimate friend, the account has most certainly been hacked.

Also, if one of your connections sends you a message requesting money. Whether you're unsure, phone the contact to see if it's legitimate.

It might be a fraudster attempting to log into your account if you receive a six-digit verification SMS without initiating the request.

To add an extra degree of security, enable two-step verification.

We care about the safety and security of you and your messages. WhatsApp stated, "We want you to be aware of the tools and features we've developed to help you stay secure while using WhatsApp."

WhatsApp offers a tutorial that will walk you through how to keep your account safe from hackers and cybercriminals.