My WhatsApp may be hacked: how to check and take it back

Do these first

1. Open WhatsApp, Settings, Linked devices. Log out every device you do not recognise.
2. Turn on two-step verification: Settings, Account, Two-step verification, and set a PIN that you have not used anywhere else.
3. If you are locked out, install WhatsApp again, enter your number and the six-digit code sent by SMS. Never share that code with anyone, even a friend.
4. Warn your contacts by another channel (call or SMS) that your account may be misused and not to send money.

Then do these

1. Check Settings, Privacy and limit who can add you to groups, see your profile photo and last seen.
2. Remove unknown apps from your phone and review Accessibility settings.
3. Change the password of your email account linked to the phone, in case the SMS code was read by a malicious app.
4. If someone is asking your friends for money, tell them to call you before paying.

What not to do

• Do not forward the six-digit WhatsApp code to anyone.
• Do not scan a QR code that someone else sends you to "link" or "verify" your account.
• Do not click links in messages that claim your account will be banned.

Where to report

Inside WhatsApp use Report and Block. If money was lost, call 1930 and report at cybercrime.gov.in. Suspicious numbers can also go to the Sanchar Saathi portal (Chakshu facility).

How Safeavio Sentinel can help

• Scam check: paste a suspicious message and read why it looks risky.
• Phone scan: shows apps with risky permissions such as accessibility or screen overlay.
• Family code word: a short question only your family can answer, to confirm that a "friend" asking for money is real.

Questions people ask

This page is general information, not legal or financial advice. Use only the number printed on your card, passbook or the official app of your bank or company.

More: all recovery steps · safety guides · Safeavio compared with a traditional antivirus