Protect Your WhatsApp Now! #ASF

The Growing Threat to WhatsApp Users WhatsApp is one of the most widely used messaging platforms, but cybercriminals have found ways to exploit it. From hacking accounts through social engineering to stealing personal data, scams are on the rise. Today, we’ll break down how scammers target users, the real risks involved, and how you can stay safe. How Are Scammers Hacking WhatsApp? Cybercriminals use several tactics to gain access to your WhatsApp account. The most common methods include: 1. OTP Scams: o You receive an unexpected OTP (one-time password) via SMS or WhatsApp. o A scammer—often impersonating a friend, family member, or even WhatsApp support—calls or messages you, claiming they sent the OTP by mistake and need you to share it. o The moment you share the OTP, they gain control of your account, locking you out. 2. Call Forwarding Fraud: o Scammers trick you into dialing a specific number (usually disguised as a service request). o This number activates call forwarding on your phone, redirecting incoming calls—including OTP verification calls—to the scammer’s device. o They use this to take over your WhatsApp account and reset your login. 3. Malicious Links and Phishing Attacks: o Fraudulent messages claim your WhatsApp will be suspended unless you verify your account via a link. o Clicking on the link leads to a fake login page where you unknowingly enter your credentials, allowing hackers to steal your account. 4. Fake Technical Support Scams: o You receive a message from someone pretending to be WhatsApp support, asking you to confirm your account details or enter a verification code. o WhatsApp will never ask for your personal data via messages—this is always a scam. 5. WhatsApp Web Hijacking: o Scammers gain temporary access to your phone and secretly scan the QR code to log into WhatsApp Web on their device. o Once logged in, they can read your messages and collect personal data without you noticing. What Happens When Your WhatsApp Gets Hacked? • Identity Theft: Hackers may impersonate you to scam your contacts, asking for money or sensitive details. • Financial Fraud: Scammers can access linked payment apps and misuse your financial details. • Data Breach: Personal messages, photos, and videos can be leaked or used against you. • Blackmail & Extortion: Criminals might threaten to misuse your data unless you pay a ransom. How to Secure Your WhatsApp from Hackers 1. Enable Two-Step Verification: o Go to WhatsApp - Settings -Linked Devices - Log out from all devices. o Even if a hacker gets your OTP, they won’t be able to access your account without this PIN. 2. Never Share OTPs: o WhatsApp OTPs are private. NEVER share them, even if someone claims to be from WhatsApp support. 3. Avoid Clicking Suspicious Links: o Be wary of links sent via unknown contacts or even friends if they seem unusual. 4. Check for Unauthorized WhatsApp Web Sessions: o Go to Settings - Linked Devices and ensure no unknown devices are logged in. 5. Turn Off Call Forwarding: o Dial ##21# on your phone to disable all call forwarding. 6. Educate Your Family & Friends: o Make sure your contacts, especially elderly family members or young users, know about these scams. What to Do If Your WhatsApp is Hacked? • Immediately log out all devices: o Go to WhatsApp - Settings - Linked Devices - Log out from all devices. • Re-register your WhatsApp account: o Try logging in again with your number and request a new OTP. Visit our website for more tips Stay Aware, Stay Safe! Jai Hind, Jai Bharat! 📢 Spread awareness—SHARE this video to protect other too! 🔹 Follow for more expert cyber safety insights from the Akancha Srivastava Foundation. Together, we build a safer online world! CONTACT US: Website: www.AkanchaSrivastava.Org Email: TeamAkancha@gmail.com Twitter: @AkanchaS   / akanchas   Instagram: @akanchas   / akanchas   Facebook:   / akanchasrivastava1   LinkedIn:   / akanchasrivastava   ABOUT ‘AKANCHA SRIVASTAVA FOUNDATION’ The Akancha Srivastava Foundation is India’s leading social impact initiative dedicated to advancing cyber safety awareness and education. Established in February 2017, this not-for-profit Section 8 organization is a trusted voice in promoting safe online practices across the nation. Distinguished Board of Advisors Guided by an honorary advisory board of esteemed leaders: • Former Special DGP RK Vij (Chhattisgarh Police) • ADG Navniet Sekera (Uttar Pradesh Police) • ADG Krishna Prakash (Maharashtra Police) • Dr. Poonam Verma (Principal, SSCBS, Delhi University) Our Mission The Foundation is committed to educating, empowering, and building bridges between the public and authorities on critical cyber safety issues. Additionally, we specialize in forensics training for law enforcement, equipping them with the skills needed to tackle cybercrime effectively.