Attackers may try to trick you into giving them the six-digit verification code that WhatsApp sends to your phone when you try to log in to your account. Once they have this code, they can log in to your account and take control of it.
One common way that attackers do this is by sending you a message that appears to be from WhatsApp, saying that your account has been suspended or that you need to verify your identity. The message will include a link that, when clicked, will take you to a fake WhatsApp login page. If you enter your phone number and verification code on this page, the attacker will be able to steal your account.
Another way that attackers may try to steal your verification code is by calling you and posing as a WhatsApp customer support representative. They may tell you that they need to verify your identity to help you with a problem with your account. If you give them your verification code, they will be able to steal your account.
How to set up two-factor authentication (2FA) on WhatsApp
Two-factor authentication (2FA) is an extra layer of security that can help protect your WhatsApp account from unauthorized access. When 2FA is enabled, you will need to enter a six-digit PIN in addition to your phone number when logging in to WhatsApp.
To set up 2FA on WhatsApp, follow these steps:
Open WhatsApp and tap the three dots in the top right corner of the screen.
- Tap Settings.
- Tap Account.
- Tap Two-step verification.
- Enter a six-digit PIN of your choice and tap Next.
- Tap Done.
Once you have enabled 2FA, you will need to enter your PIN whenever you log in to WhatsApp on a new device or after reinstalling the app.
Here are some tips for creating a strong 2FA PIN:
- Make sure your PIN is at least six digits long.
- Avoid using common sequences of numbers, such as 123456 or 000000.
- Do not use your phone number, birthday, or other easily guessable information for your PIN.
- Consider using a password manager to generate and store a strong PIN for you.
If you forget your 2FA PIN, you can reset it by waiting seven days or by using your email address if you added one when you enabled 2FA.