WhatsApp Under Cyberattack
Smartphones have become an essential gadget in everyday life, and WhatsApp is one of the most-used applications on smartphones. Recently, cyber criminals started misusing the same app as an exploitation tool. The fraudsters are seeking ways to hack WhatsApp accounts and obtain control over users' phones. In view of such incidents rising in Telangana, an alert has been issued by the Telangana Cyber Security Bureau (TGCSB) to warn people about it.
How Hackers Take Control
Nowadays, cyber crooks are sending APK files via WhatsApp. Such APKs named RTA Challan, PM Kisan, Current Bill, Bank KYC, and Courier Notice look like they are gaining momentum. When users click on such links and install such files, their phones get compromised. As a result, hackers reach contacts, WhatsApp messages, SMS, and OTPs.
iPhone users are equally vulnerable. The hackers fool them by posing as some authorities and asking them to dial *21*number#. This number actually activates call forwarding, by which the criminals hijack the user's WhatsApp account and take over calls and data. After taking control, they can use this for blackmail or fraud.
How to Protect Your Phone
- What to Do If You Suspect Hacking, Receive Suspicious Files or Calls:
- Go to Settings and turn off all active Call Forwarding options.
- Back up your important photos and files.
- Uninstall any unknown or suspicious apps immediately.
- Perform a factory reset to eliminate the hidden malware.
- Reinstall the necessary apps only from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store.
- Reinstall WhatsApp, then verify your number and restore your backup.
- If you cannot access WhatsApp, please go to https://www.whatsapp.com/contact
- to recover your account.
- For now, TGCSB advises users to download M-Kavach2, a government mobile security solution which will help them detect problematic applications.
Preventive Measures
- Never download unknown APK files from WhatsApp or any other source.
- Immediately delete any suspicious messages or links.
- Do not respond to calls from unknown persons asking you to dial special codes like *21*number#.
- Enable two-step verification in WhatsApp for added security.
Report Cybercrime
- You can report the crime through official channels if you are a victim or suspect cyber fraud.
- National Cybercrime Reporting Portal: https://cybercrime.gov.in Toll-Free Number: 1930 Cyber Fraud Registry: 87126 72222
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