The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) has issued a public warning about a rise in WhatsApp account hacks, with cybercriminals increasingly targeting women’s accounts. According to the FIA, recent reports indicate a spike in the hacking of WhatsApp accounts.
Cybercriminals are primarily focusing on accessing women’s accounts, exploiting their personal information, including chats, photos, and videos, for blackmail and exploitation. Cybercriminals are employing sophisticated methods such as phishing and social engineering to gain unauthorized access to WhatsApp accounts. Phishing tactics often involve deceptive messages that trick users into revealing personal information or clicking on malicious links. The FIA stated that these cyberattacks predominantly target female users, granting criminals access to their private data and conversations. Hackers can then use the compromised accounts to publish inappropriate content and commit fraud. To protect your WhatsApp account, the FIA recommends the following safety measures: Enable Two-Step Verification:
This adds an extra layer of security to your account, protecting it from unauthorized access. Avoid Interacting with Unknown Numbers: Refrain from opening messages, photos, videos, or files from unfamiliar contacts, as they may contain spam links or harmful files. Regularly Review and Update Privacy Settings: Limit access to your personal information by periodically checking and updating your WhatsApp privacy settings. If your WhatsApp account is hacked, take these immediate steps: Contact the FIA Helpline: Call 1991 or visit the nearest FIA office for assistance. Reach Out to WhatsApp Help: Regain control of your account and implement necessary security measures. Inform Close Contacts: Notify friends, family, and colleagues.
