With cyber fraud and online scams increasing rapidly, securing your WhatsApp account has become more important than ever. Although WhatsApp offers end-to-end encryption for chats and calls, cybersecurity experts warn that encryption alone is not enough to fully protect users from hacking attempts, spyware attacks, SIM fraud, and account theft.

Hackers are continuously using new methods to target users, including fake verification codes, malicious links, unknown calls, and unauthorized device access. Because of these rising threats, users are being advised to activate additional security and privacy settings available inside the app.

Fortunately, securing a WhatsApp account only takes a few minutes and can significantly reduce the risk of unauthorized access.

Enable Two-Step Verification Immediately

One of the most important security features available on WhatsApp is Two-Step Verification.

To activate it:

• Open WhatsApp Settings
• Go to Account
• Select “Two-step verification”
• Tap “Enable”
• Create a 6-digit PIN

This extra layer of protection helps prevent hackers from accessing your account even if they manage to steal your SIM card or obtain your WhatsApp verification OTP.

Without the PIN, unauthorized users cannot complete the login process, making it much harder for cybercriminals to hijack accounts.

Cybersecurity experts strongly recommend enabling this feature for all users.

Use WhatsApp App Lock for Extra Protection

Even if your smartphone is already protected with a password or fingerprint lock, enabling WhatsApp’s built-in app lock feature adds another important security layer.

To activate App Lock:

• Open Settings
• Go to Privacy
• Select “App Lock”

Once enabled, WhatsApp will require fingerprint authentication or Face ID before opening the app.

This feature becomes especially useful if someone gains physical access to your unlocked phone. Without biometric authentication, they will not be able to read chats, media files, or personal conversations stored inside WhatsApp.

Regularly Check Linked Devices

Many users forget that their WhatsApp account may remain logged into computers or other devices through WhatsApp Web or linked device features.

To review connected devices:

• Open WhatsApp menu (three dots)
• Tap “Linked Devices”

Carefully check whether any unknown computers, tablets, or smartphones are connected to your account.

If you notice any suspicious or unfamiliar device, immediately select “Log Out” to disconnect it.

Experts recommend checking linked devices regularly, especially if you use WhatsApp Web in offices, cyber cafes, or shared systems.

Turn On Strict Account Security Settings

WhatsApp is gradually rolling out advanced protection tools designed to combat spyware attacks, suspicious messages, and unwanted communication.

To access these features:

• Open Settings
• Go to Privacy
• Select Advanced
• Enable “Strict Account Settings”

This feature works like a privacy-focused lockdown mode by:

• Blocking suspicious files and unknown video content
• Muting unknown calls automatically
• Reducing risks linked to spyware and hacking attempts

Security researchers say advanced protection modes are becoming increasingly necessary as cyberattacks targeting messaging platforms continue to rise globally.

Customize Privacy Settings Carefully

Users are also advised to review their personal privacy controls inside WhatsApp.

Under:

• Settings → Privacy

Users can limit visibility of:

• Last Seen
• Online status
• Profile photo
• About information
• Status updates

Restricting this information to trusted contacts can reduce the chances of stalking, impersonation, and targeted scams.

Privacy experts recommend avoiding the “Everyone” option for sensitive profile details.

Enable Advanced Protection Features

WhatsApp has also introduced additional security tools aimed at improving user safety.

Under:

• Settings → Privacy → Advanced

Users can enable:

• “Block unknown account messages”
• “Protect IP address in calls”
• “Disable link previews”

These features help reduce exposure to malicious links, suspicious contacts, and network-based attacks.

Protecting IP addresses during calls can also improve privacy by preventing unknown callers from identifying approximate user locations through network information.

Cyber Threats Are Growing Rapidly

Cybercrime involving messaging platforms has increased significantly in recent years. Fraudsters often target WhatsApp users through:

• Fake customer support scams
• OTP fraud
• Malicious APK files
• Phishing links
• Spyware attacks
• Impersonation attempts

Security experts say many attacks succeed because users fail to activate basic account protection settings.

Small Security Steps Can Prevent Major Losses

Cybersecurity professionals believe simple precautions can dramatically improve digital safety.

Users are advised to:

• Never share OTPs or PINs
• Avoid clicking unknown links
• Keep WhatsApp updated
• Enable all available security features
• Regularly review privacy settings

As online threats continue evolving in 2026, staying alert and proactively securing accounts has become essential for protecting personal conversations, financial information, and digital identity.