Learn how to secure your WhatsApp group from hackers in this post…
WhatsApp Messenger is an app actively being used by over two billion people. Regardless of how engaging WhatsApp is, it can easily be hacked.
In November 2019, the WhatsApp account of Jeff Bezos, the CEO of Amazon, was hacked, and it can happen to you. Not just your account, but also your WhatsApp group can get hacked.
WhatsApp groups are created to enable users with a common interest to interact, but if a user’s account has been hacked, then the groups they belong to can be accessed by hackers, and they can use that means to defraud people on those groups.
However, below are five ways to take to secure a WhatsApp account and groups from hackers.
READ ALSO: Best Protection Tools Against Hackers
Table of Contents
How To Secure Your WhatsApp Group From Hackers
1. Enable the Two-Step Verification
WhatsApp has a feature called “Two-step verification”. It was created specifically as a defensive feature to help secure your WhatsApp account. It makes it difficult for unauthorized logging in.
This crucial security feature adds a layer of protection by requiring a six-digit PIN whenever you log in from a new device. To activate it:
- Open WhatsApp.
- Tap the three dots on the top right corner.
- Select “Settings” > “Account” > “Two-step verification.”
- Enter and confirm a six-digit PIN of your choice.
- Add an email address for recovery in case you forget your PIN.
2. Ensure that only trusted individuals are invited to your group(s)
Create policies that ensure that only trusted people are invited to your group. When sharing the group link, ensure that it is shared with an accountable number of individuals that will be able to account for the people that will access the group through the link.
- Admin Approval: Enable this feature to vet all potential members before they join. Group admins receive requests and decide who can access the group.
- Invite Links: Share links responsibly and avoid publicly posting them on social media or other platforms. Consider revoking expired links to prevent unauthorized access.
- Group Description: Clearly state the group’s purpose and membership criteria to attract trustworthy individuals.
READ ALSO: Basic Tips To Ensure Online Safety
3. Do not click on any suspicious link
When sent a link, either through your mail or as a WhatsApp message and it seems suspicious, do not click on it. Clicking on such a link can reveal personal data to hackers, which could be used to hack your account.
Links can be malicious tools used by hackers to steal your data or compromise your account. Never click on suspicious links, even if they seem to come from friends or trusted sources. Inform other group members to be cautious as well.
4. Do not share your pin or code with anyone
No matter how much you trust a friend or family member, do not share your two-step verification pin with them.
If a code is sent to your phone and you are asked to send it back, do not do it as it can be someone trying to hack your account.
Never share your two-step verification PIN or any verification codes sent to your phone with anyone, even close friends or family. These are confidential and should be kept secret.
READ ALSO: Web Security Guide: Keeping Your Website Safe
5. Deactivate your account if your phone is stolen
In a situation where your phone gets stolen, deactivate your account from another phone to ensure that hackers don’t log into your account from the stolen phone and gain access to your personal data and groups.
6. Limit Admin Privileges
- Assign admin roles selectively: Only grant admin privileges to trusted members who understand the responsibility and will use them responsibly.
- Enable “Only admins can change group info” setting: This prevents unauthorized members from changing the group’s name, description, and picture.
- Use “Delete for everyone” feature: This allows admins to delete inappropriate or offensive messages for everyone in the group, creating a cleaner and safer environment.
7 Control Media Visibility
- Enable “Disappearing messages” feature: This automatically deletes messages after a set time, offering additional privacy and preventing sensitive information from being stored indefinitely.
- Restrict media forwarding: This prevents group content from being shared further without permission, mitigating the risk of misinformation and inappropriate content spread.
- Limit who can send media: This gives admins more control and can be helpful in groups with a high volume of media content.
8. Leverage Group Announcements
- Post important security information: Share reminders about cyber hygiene practices, potential threats, and reporting procedures.
- Use group announcements for official updates: This ensures everyone receives crucial information and minimizes confusion.
- Create a pinned message with group rules: Clearly outline acceptable behavior and consequences for violating them.
9. Promote Open Communication
- Encourage members to report suspicious activity: Create an environment where members feel comfortable reporting any concerns they may have.
- Address issues promptly: Don’t ignore reports of abuse, harassment, or inappropriate content. Address them immediately and take appropriate action.
- Promote transparency: Explain the rationale behind security measures and encourage open dialogue about group safety.
10. Utilize Third-Party Security Tools
- Consider using encryption apps alongside WhatsApp for sensitive conversations.
- Utilize tools like “GroupButler” or “AdminBot” to automate certain security tasks and manage group membership effectively.
- Research and choose trusted third-party tools that prioritize data security and user privacy.
READ ALSO: How to Secure Your Mobile Devices: A Comprehensive Guide
Remember:
- Security is an ongoing process. Regularly review your group’s security settings and adapt them as needed.
- Educate your group members about online safety and cyber threats.
- Encourage responsible behavior and hold everyone accountable for maintaining a safe and secure group environment.
A Final Word…
By implementing these steps, you can significantly Secure Your WhatsApp Group From Hackers and protect your members from unauthorized access and malicious activity.
Finally, cybercrimes are being committed daily and no one can ever be too careful. Secure your WhatsApp today by following these steps to avoid regrets.
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About the Author:
Marie Beaujolie is a computer network engineer and content writer from Paris. She is passionate about technology and exploring new ways to make people’s lives easier. Marie has been working in the IT industry for many years and has a wealth of knowledge about computer security and best practices. She is a regular contributor for SecureBlitz.com, where she writes about the latest trends and news in the cyber security industry. Marie is committed to helping people stay safe online and encouraging them to take the necessary steps to protect their data.
Meet Angela Daniel, an esteemed cybersecurity expert and the Associate Editor at SecureBlitz. With a profound understanding of the digital security landscape, Angela is dedicated to sharing her wealth of knowledge with readers. Her insightful articles delve into the intricacies of cybersecurity, offering a beacon of understanding in the ever-evolving realm of online safety.
Angela's expertise is grounded in a passion for staying at the forefront of emerging threats and protective measures. Her commitment to empowering individuals and organizations with the tools and insights to safeguard their digital presence is unwavering.
