NITDA issues advisory to help WhatsApp users protect accounts from Cyber threat (Hacking)

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The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has issued an extensive advisory note to WhatsApp users in Nigeria to help them protect their accounts against hacking and unauthorized access.
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This warning outlines specific measures for both individuals and group administrators to prevent and respond to account breaches.

The advisory note and guidance come amid increased concerns about cyber threats to messaging apps and social media platforms, with WhatsApp being especially vulnerable due to its extensive use.

Furthermore, the NITDA highlights the significance of remaining cautious while utilizing the platform to protect security and secure personal information.

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"WhatsApp is an effective communication tool, but like any other digital platform, it demands you to remain careful and vigilant. 

NITDA as a government agency recommends taking these basic actions to protect your security and information. 

The content of the advisory note focused on how to:

  • Recover hacked accounts 
  • Protecting group chats 
  • How to secure your WhatsApp account 

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Recover hacked accounts

NITDA recommends that if a user feels their WhatsApp account has been hijacked, they act quickly to reclaim control. It's recommended to immediately log out of all devices to prevent illegal access.

"Logging out all devices can help limit unauthorized access and give users back control of their accounts," according to NITDA.

Users are recommended to uninstall and reinstall WhatsApp to receive a new verification code. NITDA underlines the need to enable two-step verification immediately after regaining access since it adds a layer of security against any future hacks.

"Two-step verification is one of the most effective measures in preventing unauthorized access," according to NITDA.

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NITDA also recommends that hacked individuals tell their connections to avoid future phishing efforts. Informing contacts helps prevent the spread of harmful communications or links.

Additionally, analyzing recent chats for any strange activity or messages is recommended. For persistent difficulties or if recovery proves difficult, NITDA recommends users contact WhatsApp Support immediately.

Protecting group chats 

NITDA's advisory provides WhatsApp group administrators with guidance on safeguarding group chats, particularly when a member's account is compromised.

If a member's account is hacked, administrators should quickly remove the compromised user from the group to avoid the spread of any unlawful content.

According to NITDA, telling group members about the hijacked account is crucial since it raises awareness.

Members are encouraged to exercise caution when encountering questionable websites or messages.

Administrators are also advised to contact impacted members via other communication methods to inform them about the incident and provide information on how to regain their accounts.

NITDA emphasizes how important it is to use WhatsApp's recovery mechanisms, like the "Forgot PIN" and "Request Support" choices. Group administrators can also report the hijacked account to WhatsApp for help if necessary.


How to secure your WhatsApp account

NITDA outlines some recommended practices to help all WhatsApp users improve the security of their accounts and lessen the chance of account hacks:
  • One of NITDA's main recommendations is to enable two-step verification. This feature, which can be accessed via WhatsApp's security settings, provides an essential extra degree of security.
  • NITDA advises users to be cautious when clicking on links and files from contacts they haven't verified because doing so can expose their devices to malware and phishing scams.
  • Another important recommendation as provided by NITDA is to update the WhatsApp app regularly. Users who update are guaranteed to have the most recent security patches installed, which fix vulnerabilities that hackers could take advantage to limit who can view their profile picture, status, and last seen, NITDA also suggests that users modify their privacy settings. 
  • To limit who can view their profile picture, status, and last seen, NITDA also suggests that users modify their privacy settings. By doing this, exposure to unidentified people who might abuse such information can be reduced. Users should never divulge their verification codes to third parties, especially those impersonating WhatsApp support or other reliable services, as an extra precaution.
Lastly, because public Wi-Fi networks are more susceptible to data intrusions, NITDA advises users to stay away from using WhatsApp on unprotected networks.

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