By Dwaipayan Roy | Oct 07, 2025, 08:02 pm
**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.
### SIM Fraud
**SIM Swapping**
SIM swapping, also known as port-out fraud, is a common method hackers use to hijack WhatsApp accounts. In this technique, 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 via social engineering is another prevalent method of account hacking. Attackers trick users into sharing the SMS verification codes sent by WhatsApp during login attempts. They often impersonate friends, family members, or even WhatsApp support using urgent or emotional appeals. Once they gain access to a user’s contact list, they launch chain scams demanding money from the user’s contacts.
**Call Forwarding Exploitation**
Call forwarding exploitation is a deceptive tactic used by scammers to hijack WhatsApp accounts. They trick victims 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 be redirected to the attacker.
To stay safe, always check your call forwarding status and avoid dialing unsolicited codes.
### Quishing Risk
**QR Code Phishing or ‘Quishing’**
QR code phishing, or “quishing,” is a method where hackers send fake QR code links leading to malicious websites. Once scanned by the victim, the attacker can access their WhatsApp Web session. This fraud has been reported in tech hubs like Bengaluru and is frequently linked to job scams.
To protect yourself, 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. These programs steal messages and verification codes, or even remotely control the device. To stay protected, avoid installing apps from unknown sources, keep your operating system and WhatsApp updated, and use reputable antivirus software.
**Voicemail Breach**
Voicemail hacking is another method attackers use to hijack WhatsApp accounts. When WhatsApp verification calls are missed, the code may be left in voicemail. Attackers who hack voicemail systems with weak or default PINs can retrieve these codes.
To guard against this, always set strong voicemail PINs and regularly check for any unauthorized access to your voicemail.
### Account Breach
**Linked Meta Accounts Exploitation**
Hackers have exploited linked Meta accounts—such as those from WhatsApp, Facebook, and Instagram—to phish WhatsApp verification codes or send malicious group invites. This tactic is often used for cryptocurrency extortion.
To protect yourself, secure all your linked Meta accounts with strong passwords and enable two-factor authentication. Always be wary of suspicious invites or messages.
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By understanding these threats and taking proactive steps, you can significantly reduce the risk of your WhatsApp account being compromised. Stay vigilant and safeguard your digital privacy.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/science/how-to-protect-your-whatsapp-account-from-hackers/story
