WhatsApp has become much more than a messaging application. From personal conversations and office communication to banking alerts and important documents, millions of users rely on the platform every day. As a result, unauthorized access to a WhatsApp account can expose sensitive information and create serious security risks.

Cybercrime cases involving WhatsApp account takeovers have increased in recent years, with hackers using various techniques to gain access to users' accounts. To help users respond quickly in such situations, cyber security experts and officials have highlighted several important steps that can help regain control of a compromised account.

First Step: Check for Call and Message Forwarding

According to cybercrime experts, one of the first actions users should take if they suspect their WhatsApp account has been compromised is to verify that call and message forwarding services are not active on their device.

Users can dial ##21# from their smartphone to deactivate call and message forwarding services that may have been enabled without their knowledge.

This step is considered important because cybercriminals sometimes use call forwarding or message forwarding techniques to intercept One-Time Passwords (OTPs) and verification codes required for account access.

By disabling these services, users can reduce the risk of hackers continuing to receive authentication messages.

Signs Your WhatsApp Account May Be Hacked

There are several warning signs that could indicate unauthorized access to your WhatsApp account:

• You are unexpectedly logged out of WhatsApp.
• Messages are sent from your account without your knowledge.
• Unknown devices appear in Linked Devices.
• Contacts report receiving suspicious messages from you.
• You stop receiving verification codes or OTP messages.
• Account settings change without your permission.

If any of these signs appear, immediate action is recommended.

How to Recover a Hacked WhatsApp Account

If you lose access to your account, you should begin the recovery process as quickly as possible.

Step 1: Re-register Your Number

Open WhatsApp and attempt to log in using your mobile number.

A new verification code will be sent via SMS.

Once you enter the OTP, any unauthorized session running on another device may be automatically disconnected.

Step 2: Contact WhatsApp Support

If you are unable to regain access immediately, you can use WhatsApp's official support and complaint channels to report the issue.

While submitting a complaint, provide:

• Your mobile number (including country code)
• Registered email address (if applicable)
• Details about the suspected compromise
• Relevant account information

The support team may review the case and assist with recovery procedures.

Step 3: Check Linked Devices

After regaining access, review the list of devices connected to your WhatsApp account.

Remove any unfamiliar or unauthorized devices immediately.

Enable Two-Step Verification

Cybersecurity experts strongly recommend enabling WhatsApp's Two-Step Verification feature.

This adds an additional security layer by requiring a six-digit PIN whenever your phone number is registered on a new device.

To enable it:

1. Open WhatsApp Settings.
2. Go to Account.
3. Select Two-Step Verification.
4. Tap Enable.
5. Create a secure PIN.
6. Add a recovery email address.

This feature can significantly reduce the chances of unauthorized access.

Avoid Common Scams

Many WhatsApp compromises occur because users unknowingly share sensitive information.

To protect your account:

• Never share OTPs with anyone.
• Avoid clicking suspicious links.
• Do not install unknown applications from unofficial sources.
• Be cautious of screen-sharing requests.
• Verify the identity of anyone requesting personal information.
• Keep your device and WhatsApp application updated.

Why Immediate Action Matters

A compromised WhatsApp account can be used for fraud, identity theft, phishing attacks, and unauthorized access to personal information. The faster users respond, the greater the chances of preventing misuse and recovering control of the account.

Checking forwarding settings, securing login credentials, enabling Two-Step Verification, and reporting suspicious activity promptly can help minimize potential damage.

Final Thoughts

WhatsApp remains one of the most widely used communication platforms in the world, making it a frequent target for cybercriminals. If you suspect your account has been hacked, acting quickly is essential.

Dialing ##21# to disable forwarding services, verifying your account, reviewing connected devices, and enabling Two-Step Verification are among the most effective steps users can take to protect their accounts and personal information from unauthorized access.