WhatsApp messaging has become an integral part of our social lives. We share memories, multimedia, bank account details, contacts and so on. With all the sensitive information we share on this platform, it’s imperative that we take steps to secure the app and keep our stuff private.
Here are few steps to take to secure your WhatsApp:
Turn on Security Notifications
Security notifications help alert you when your contacts security code has changed. To turn on security notifications, go to Settings>Account>Security>Show security notifications and flip the toggle to green.
Enable Two-Step Verification
Two-factor authentication (2FA) adds a periodic passcode to WhatsApp and also ensures your data isn’t accessed by a third party. To activate 2FA, go to Settings > Account > Two-step verification > Enable. Then create your 6-digit pin. Importantly, add your email address to retrieve the code in case you forget it.
Check for Encryption in Recipient’s Profile
Despite the fact that encryption is enabled by default, it’s good practice to make sure your recipient’s chat is also encrypted especially when sharing sensitive information. To verify the encryption, tap the contact’s name, and then tap Encryption. You’ll see a bar code and some 60-digit code. You can verify this code manually by comparing the digits, or by asking the contact to scan the QR code.
Watch out for scams
Scam messages and spam are a daily sight on WhatsApp especially in the form of annoying broadcasts. Some of them offer free subscriptions, or a premium version of WhatsApp, “WhatsApp Gold,” and offer you a link to click. Make sure to not click on any link you are not sure about. It could lead to a harmful website and this could compromise your security.
Disable Cloud Backups
WhatsApp has made it known that messages backed up on Google drive or iCloud are not end-to-end encrypted. So, if you feel you have very secure information that you don’t want people snooping into, then you’d need to disable cloud backup. To disable auto backup, go to Settings > Chats > Chat Backup > Backup to Google Drive and select never.
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