By Dwaipayan Roy | Oct 07, 2025 | 08:02 pm
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### What’s the Story?
Despite its robust security features like end-to-end encryption, WhatsApp accounts can still be compromised. Cybercriminals use various methods such as social engineering, telecom fraud, and malware to target individual users. They exploit vulnerabilities in phone carrier systems and devices to hijack accounts. Once an account is compromised, attackers can access private messages or impersonate users for scams or extortion.
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### Common Methods of WhatsApp Account Hijacking
#### SIM Fraud: SIM Swapping
SIM swapping, also known as port-out fraud, is a common technique used by hackers to hijack WhatsApp accounts. In this method, attackers impersonate victims and trick telecom providers into transferring the victim’s phone number to a new SIM card. This gives them control over the number and access to all SMS and voice verification codes for WhatsApp and other services.
#### Code Deception: Phishing Through Social Engineering
Phishing through social engineering is another frequent method of account hacking. Attackers trick users into sharing SMS verification codes sent by WhatsApp during login attempts. They often impersonate friends, family members, or even WhatsApp support using urgent or emotional appeals. After gaining access to the user’s contact list, they launch chain scams, often demanding money from the user’s contacts.
#### Call Trickery: Call Forwarding Exploitation
Call forwarding exploitation is a deceptive tactic used by scammers to hijack WhatsApp accounts. Victims are tricked into dialing codes like ‘21’ followed by the attacker’s number under false pretenses, such as delivery verification. This enables call forwarding — including WhatsApp voice verification calls — to the attacker.
**Safety Tip:** Always check your call forwarding status and avoid dialing unsolicited codes.
#### Quishing Risk: QR Code Phishing or ‘Quishing’
QR code phishing, or ‘quishing,’ involves hackers sending fake QR links that lead to malicious websites. When victims scan these codes, attackers gain access to their WhatsApp Web sessions. This fraud has been reported in tech hubs like Bengaluru and is often linked to job scams.
**Safety Tip:** Only scan QR codes from the official WhatsApp website and regularly check for unknown devices under *Linked Devices* in your WhatsApp settings.
#### Device Compromise: Malicious Apps and Spyware
Malicious apps, trojans, or advanced spyware like Pegasus can hijack WhatsApp accounts by stealing messages, verification codes, or remotely controlling the device.
**Safety Tip:** Avoid installing apps from unknown sources. Keep your operating system and WhatsApp updated, and use reputable antivirus software.
#### Voicemail Breach: Voicemail Hacking
When WhatsApp verification calls are missed, the code may be left in voicemail. Attackers who hack voicemail systems with default or weak PINs can retrieve these codes and hijack accounts.
**Safety Tip:** Set strong voicemail PINs and regularly check your voicemail for unauthorized access.
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### Account Breach: Linked Meta Accounts Exploitation
Hackers have exploited linked accounts from Meta—which owns WhatsApp, Facebook, and Instagram—to phish WhatsApp codes or send malicious group invites. This tactic is often used in cryptocurrency extortion scams.
**Safety Tip:** Secure all your linked Meta accounts with strong passwords and two-factor authentication. Always be cautious of suspicious invites.
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### Final Advice
To safeguard your WhatsApp account:
– Be vigilant against phishing attempts and unsolicited requests.
– Regularly review your account’s active sessions and linked devices.
– Use strong, unique passwords and enable two-step verification.
– Always verify the authenticity of messages or calls requesting your verification codes.
Stay informed and stay safe!
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/science/how-to-protect-your-whatsapp-account-from-hackers/story
