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Lock down WhatsApp in 10 minutes: five settings that matter

By CyberNewsShield Editorial Desk 3 min read Published Updated

Fraudsters hijack WhatsApp accounts to message your contacts for "emergency" money. These five settings take about ten minutes.

1. Turn on two-step verification

Go to Settings → Account → Two-step verification and set a six-digit PIN plus a recovery email. Even if someone gets your OTP, they cannot register your number without this PIN.

2. Never share the six-digit code

The registration code is for you alone. No friend, "support agent" or delivery person needs it.

3. Check linked devices

Open Settings → Linked devices. Log out any device you do not recognise.

4. Limit who can add you to groups

In Settings → Privacy → Groups choose "My contacts" so strangers cannot drop you into scam groups.

5. Hide your personal details

Set Profile photo, About and Last seen to "My contacts". Scammers use photos and names to impersonate you.

If a friend suddenly asks for urgent money on chat, call them on a normal voice call before sending anything.

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