To help Nigerian WhatsApp users safeguard their accounts against hacking and unauthorised access, the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has released a thorough guideline.
Both individuals and group administrators can follow the instructions outlined in these guidelines to prevent and address account breaches.
The recommendations follow increased worries about cyberattacks that target social media sites and messaging apps, particularly WhatsApp given its widespread use.
NITDA highlights the significance of maintaining vigilance when using the app to guarantee security and protect personal data.
“WhatsApp is a powerful communication tool, but like any digital platform, it requires you to stay vigilant. Follow these simple yet crucial steps to ensure your security and protect your information,” the agency stated.
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How to recover your hacked WhatsApp accounts
According to NITDA, users should take immediate action to recover control of their WhatsApp account if they believe it has been compromised. Logging out of all devices to disconnect any unauthorised users is one of the first things that should be done.
“Logging out all devices can help limit unauthorised access and give users back control of their accounts,” NITDA stated.
Users are advised to uninstall and reinstall WhatsApp to get a new verification code. Setting up two-step verification as soon as possible after regaining access is crucial, according to NITDA, since it provides an additional layer of protection against any future hacks.
“Two-step verification is one of the most effective measures in preventing unauthorised access,” NITDA said.
To stop possible phishing attempts, NITDA advises compromised individuals to alert their contacts. Notifying contacts is essential to stopping the spread of any false information or links that can endanger other users.
Hacked users were further advised to go over recent conversations for any odd messages or activities. NITDA advises getting in touch with WhatsApp Support directly if the issue persists or recovery proves challenging.
How WhatsApp group admins can protect group chats from hacking
The NITDA advice gives WhatsApp group admins detailed instructions on how to protect group chats, particularly in cases where a group member’s account has been hacked.
To stop any unauthorised content from spreading, administrators are urged to remove compromised members from the group right away if their accounts are compromised. Notifying group members about the hijacked account is essential, according to NITDA, since it helps spread knowledge and motivates members to exercise caution when clicking on dubious links or messages.
Administrators are also urged to contact the affected member via other means of communication to notify them about the incident and provide instructions for getting their account back.
NITDA emphasises how important it is to use WhatsApp’s recovery mechanisms, like the “Forgot PIN” and “Request Support” choices. Group administrators can also report the hijacked account to WhatsApp for help if necessary.
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How to protect your WhatsApp account from hacking
NITDA made some suggestions to help all WhatsApp users improve the security of their accounts and reduce the risk of hacks.
A major recommendation is to enable two-step verification. This feature, which can be accessed via WhatsApp’s security settings, provides an essential extra degree of security.
NITDA advises users to be cautious when clicking on links and files from contacts they haven’t verified because doing so can expose their devices to malware and phishing scams.
Another important suggestion is to update the WhatsApp app regularly. Users who update are guaranteed to have the most recent security patches installed, which fix vulnerabilities that hackers could take advantage of.
To limit who can view their profile picture, status, and last seen, NITDA also suggests that users modify their privacy settings. By doing this, exposure to unidentified people who might misuse such information can be reduced.
Users should never divulge their verification codes to third parties, especially those impersonating WhatsApp support or other reliable services, as an extra precaution.
In conclusion, NITDA advises users to stay away from using WhatsApp on unprotected networks because public Wi-Fi networks are more susceptible to data intrusions.
