The National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) has issued a warning to WhatsApp users, advising them to take immediate action in case of suspected hacking to avoid potential misuse of their accounts.
In an advisory, the NCCIA said users who lose access to their WhatsApp account or believe it is being used by someone else should promptly re-register the account to regain control.
The agency advised affected users to uninstall WhatsApp and reinstall it on their mobile phones. After reinstalling, users should enter their phone number to log in. WhatsApp will then send a six-digit verification code via SMS, which must be entered immediately.
According to the NCCIA, once the verification code is entered, the hacker will be automatically logged out, as WhatsApp allows only one active session on a single mobile device at a time.
The agency further explained that in some cases, users may be asked to wait for seven days if the hacker has enabled two-step verification and the PIN is unknown. The NCCIA said there is no need to panic in such situations.
It clarified that as long as the SMS verification code has been successfully entered, the hacker is already logged out.
During the waiting period, no one can access the account or read messages.
The NCCIA urged users to remain vigilant and follow official guidance to protect their digital accounts from cyber threats.
