This archive report was first published on 27 July 2021.
Published on July 27, 2021, a warning from authorities about a prolific verification code scam on WhatsApp has been rearing its ugly head.
WhatsApp is one of the safest chatting platforms available, but users still need to be vigilant to avoid hackers.
How the WhatsApp Verification Code Scam Works ¶
Cybercriminals try to gain access to WhatsApp verification codes because they give them the power to take control of accounts in seconds.
They do this by taking control of one of your contact's WhatsApp accounts and messaging you pretending to be them.
The hacker will message pretending to be your friend around the same time you get a text or email from WhatsApp with a verification code that the hacker has requested by pretending to be you.
This code is only given when you try and make changes to your account.
Protecting Your WhatsApp Account ¶
Never share your WhatsApp six-digit verification code with anyone.
Turning on two-step verification is also advisable, so your WhatsApp is also protected by a PIN.
Open WhatsApp, go to Settings, then click 'Two-Step Verification', click 'Enable', and enter a PIN of your choice.
WhatsApp will occasionally ask for this PIN when you use the app to double-check it is you.
