Protecting Against WhatsApp Takeover Attacks

  • July 18, 2024
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The recent surge in WhatsApp takeover attacks has heightened the need for users to adopt robust security measures. These attacks involve cybercriminals gaining unauthorized access to users’ WhatsApp accounts, which can lead to data theft, unauthorized messages, and potential financial losses.

Understanding WhatsApp Takeover Attacks

Common Methods of Attack:

  1. Social Engineering: Attackers trick users into sharing their WhatsApp verification codes.

How Attackers Trick Users into Sharing Their Verification Codes

 

  1. Deceptive Messages:
    • Attackers often send messages pretending to be from WhatsApp or even from a known contact.
    • The message may claim there is an urgent need to verify your account or resolve a security issue.
    • They will ask you to share the six-digit verification code sent to your phone.
  2. Fake Emergency Scenarios:
    • Attackers may create a sense of urgency, claiming your account will be deactivated or that someone is trying to hack it.
    • They might say something like, “We detected unusual activity on your account. Please provide the code sent to your phone to verify your identity.”
  3. Impersonating Friends or Family:
    • Sometimes, attackers gain access to one of your contacts’ accounts and send messages from that account asking for the code.
    • The message might seem friendly or urgent, such as, “Hey, I accidentally sent my WhatsApp verification code to your number. Can you please send it back to me?”

 

  1. SIM Swapping: Attackers manipulate mobile carriers to transfer the victim’s phone number to a new SIM card.
  2. Phishing: Attackers use fake websites or messages to capture login details.

 

Known Vulnerabilities

Recommended Protective Measures

  1. Enable Two-Step Verification:
    • Open WhatsApp and navigate to Settings > Account > Two-step verification > Enable.
    • This adds an extra layer of security by requiring a PIN in addition to the verification code.
  2. Be Wary of Verification Requests:
    • Never share your WhatsApp verification code with anyone, regardless of how convincing the request may seem.
  3. Use Device Verification:
    • This feature ensures that attempts to switch your WhatsApp account to a new device must be verified on your old device.
  4. Beware of Phishing Attempts:
    • Avoid clicking on suspicious links or providing personal information through untrusted messages or websites.
  5. Secure Your Mobile Number:
    • Contact your mobile carrier to add extra protections, such as a PIN or password for SIM card changes.
  6. Regularly Update WhatsApp:
    • Ensure your WhatsApp application is updated to the latest version to benefit from security patches and updates.
    • Use ONLY the official WhatsApp application

Immediate Actions if Compromised

  • Enable Two-Step Verification: If you can still access your account, immediately enable two-step verification.
  • Contact WhatsApp Support: Report any unauthorized access to WhatsApp support immediately.
  • Notify Your Contacts: Inform friends and family about the situation to prevent them from being scammed by messages from your compromised account.

 

WhatsApp’s Enhanced Security Features

WhatsApp has announced several new features to combat account takeovers:

  • Account Protect: Requires verification on the old device when switching to a new device.
  • Device Verification: Adds layers of security to ensure the authentication key cannot be stolen by malware​ (Help Net Security)​.
  • Automatic Security Codes: Automatically verifies secure connections, enhancing ease of use and security​ (Help Net Security)​.

For detailed information and further assistance, please visit the WhatsApp Help Center.

Always Stay vigilant and secure.

National Cybersecurity Coordination Center

This advisory aims to educate and equip the public with necessary steps to protect their WhatsApp accounts against takeover attacks.