Secure WhatsApp account from unauthorized access; here is how to

Amid the increasing number of cyber crimes and frauds it is very important to stay safe and protected online. WhatsApp is one of the most commonly used messaging applications in the world and it is used daily to share pictures, voice notes, and much more. People can now even transfer money using the payments feature of the application. Recently, there were reports that scammers were trying to steal money on WhatsApp. Hence, it is of utmost importance to secure your WhatsApp account. In order to improve the security of your account and protect it from unauthorized access WhatsApp is providing two-step verification.

"Protect your WhatsApp account from unauthorized access. WhatsApp offers you tools to improve the security of your account, thanks to two-step verification, but it's up to you to be careful because there is a scenario you probably didn't think of," WABetaInfo tweeted. It can be known that two-step verification is an optional feature that adds more security to your WhatsApp account. You will see the two-step verification screen after you successfully register your phone number on WhatsApp.

After enabling two-step verification, an additional code (called PIN) will be required when you log into WhatsApp after inserting the 6-digit registration code. Also you have the option to enter your email address while enabling two-step verification. This allows WhatsApp to email you a reset link in case you ever forget your PIN.

To help you remember your PIN, the application will prompt you to periodically enter your PIN. However, there is not an option to disable this without disabling the two-step verification feature.

So, configuring the two-step verification is very important but there is a scenario you probably did not think of. Criminals can steal your phone number by using several techniques like SIM swapping. Of course it is not easy but can happen if they can access and have your private information.

As per a report by WABetaInfo, when criminals have your phone number they may start using some of your services, including WhatsApp to scam other people. The problem is not WhatsApp, because whoever owns your phone number may be able to log into other services like Instagram, Facebook, Reddit, and others too.

With the help of two-step verification they may not be able to log into WhatsApp, but what if they are able to reset the PIN? Then how can you protect your WhatsApp account? "You should never use your phone number when you configure the two-step verification for your mail address, but you should use authentication applications," WABetaInfo said.

There are several apps that you can use to generate token authentication codes. Check here:

1. Google Authenticator: This application can be used to generate authentication codes. However, it needs to be noted that it has no automatic encrypted recovery backups and it cannot be locked.

2. 1Password: Using this app you cannot only do the authentication but you will also get several features to save your credentials.

3. Authy: This app can be used for the authentication process. It even allows encrypted backups and you can also lock it with a PIN or biometric authentication.