KARACHI – The National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) has issued an emergency protocol for WhatsApp users in case their accounts are hacked.
The NCCIA officials said if a user’s WhatsApp account is compromised, access is lost, or there is suspicion that someone else is using the account, the user should immediately re-register the account.
This can be done by uninstalling WhatsApp and reinstalling it on the mobile phone.
The officials explained that during the login process, users must enter their phone number, after which a six-digit verification code is sent via SMS. The code should be entered immediately.
The NCCIA stated that once the verification code is entered, the WhatsApp account is instantly logged out from the hacker’s device, as WhatsApp allows only one active session on a single mobile phone at a time.
According to officials, if the hacker has enabled two-step verification and the original user does not know the PIN, WhatsApp may ask the user to wait for seven days. However, users should not be concerned during this waiting period.
The agency clarified that as long as the SMS verification code (step one) has been entered, the hacker is already logged out. During the waiting period, no one can use the account or read messages.
Officials further advised that if the user had previously linked an email address with the WhatsApp account, they should select the “Forgot PIN” option to reset the PIN immediately without waiting.
The NCCIA has urged users to remain vigilant and follow the recommended security measures to protect their digital accounts from cybercrime.
