The hackers working on WhatsApp are becoming increasingly annoying. It’s high time to protect yourself a little better. We tell you how to stay safe.
WhatsApp hackers are an increasing problem: this way you stay safe
Russian hackers recently tried to gain access to the WhatsApp accounts of ministers around the world. They did this by sending links to a WhatsApp group. The links did not go to a group conversation but connected the victim’s account to another of the hacker’s devices.

The hackers are not only trying to hack into WhatsApp at ministers. The WhatsApp hackers also regularly try to get hold of everyone’s accounts. Fortunately, you can do something about that. Keeping the tips below in mind will keep you a lot safer.
1. Use two-step verification
Make sure you always have two-step verification enabled in WhatsApp to add an extra layer of security. This means that in addition to your phone number, you will also need a code to access your WhatsApp account when you want to install the app.
To enable this feature, go to ‘Settings > Account > 2-Step Verification’. Follow the on-screen prompts to enable the feature.

2. Be aware of strange links
Never click on suspicious or unexpected links in your messages, even if they appear to come from your family members. Hackers often use phishing to gain access to your data by luring you to a fake website. Always check the address of the website, don’t just click on a link. In any case, never enter your personal information if they ask for it.
Also keep in mind that, for example, your bank will never ask you to provide your details via WhatsApp. They almost always send important messages via their own app.
3. Keep your WhatsApp and your smartphone up to date
Make sure you always have the latest version of WhatsApp and iOS (or Android) installed. Updates often contain security updates that fix vulnerabilities in the software.

Hackers can exploit outdated versions of WhatsApp and increase the chances of gaining access to your data. Enable automatic updates so you don’t miss any important patches.
To automatically download app updates from apps, it is best to check whether you have the option enabled on your iPhone. To do this, go to ‘Settings > Apps > App Store’ and turn on the function under ‘App updates’.
To check whether a new version of iOS is available for you, tap ‘Settings > General > Software Update’.
4. Be careful with public Wi-Fi
As much as possible, avoid using public Wi-Fi networks to use WhatsApp, especially without a VPN. Hackers can easily eavesdrop on such networks and intercept your data.
If you do use public WiFi, make sure that you do not arrange any banking matters, etc. For such things it is better to use your own mobile internet subscription.

5. Never share your verification code
The verification code that WhatsApp sends when setting up your account is only for you. You should never forward this code to your friends, family or ‘someone from WhatsApp’.
Hackers try in all kinds of ways to obtain these codes and gain access to your account. Once they have your code, they can log into your account on another device and start abusing it.
Even if you are sure that you are careful, it is always smart to check every now and then which other devices have access to your WhatsApp account. You do this by tapping ‘Settings > Paired devices’ in WhatsApp. The devices you see here have access to your WhatsApp account.