NITDA issues advisory to protect WhatsApp users

The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has issued an important advisory for WhatsApp users in Nigeria, outlining key steps to protect accounts from hacking and unauthorized access.

This move comes as cyber threats targeting messaging platforms, particularly WhatsApp, have surged, with hackers exploiting its widespread use to gain access to sensitive personal information.

NITDA’s advisory aims to equip both individual users and group administrators with the knowledge and tools needed to safeguard their accounts and data.

The agency has stressed the importance of maintaining vigilance while using WhatsApp to avoid falling victim to potential cyberattacks.

“WhatsApp is a powerful communication tool, but like any digital platform, it requires you to stay vigilant. Follow these simple yet crucial steps to ensure your security and protect your information,” NITDA stated.

For users who suspect their WhatsApp account has been compromised, NITDA recommends taking swift action to regain control. The first step is to log out of all devices to disconnect unauthorized users.

“Logging out all devices can help limit unauthorized access and give users back control of their accounts,” NITDA advised.

Once logged out, users are encouraged to uninstall and reinstall WhatsApp to trigger a request for a new verification code. Additionally, setting up two-step verification immediately after regaining access is critical for adding an extra layer of security against future hacks.

“Two-step verification is one of the most effective measures in preventing unauthorized access,” the agency emphasized.

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NITDA also advises users to inform their contacts if their account has been hacked, in order to prevent potential phishing attempts or the spread of misleading information.

Reviewing recent chats for unusual activity is another essential step. If recovery proves difficult or if the issue persists, NITDA recommends reaching out to WhatsApp Support for further assistance.

NITDA has also provided specific advice for WhatsApp group administrators, particularly when dealing with a member’s compromised account. If a group member’s account is hacked, admins should immediately remove the compromised individual to prevent the spread of unauthorized content.

“In such cases, it is crucial to inform all group members about the breach to raise awareness and encourage caution against suspicious links or messages,” NITDA explained.

Admins are advised to contact the affected user through other communication channels to inform them of the breach and offer guidance on recovering their account. WhatsApp’s support tools, such as the “Forgot PIN” and “Request Support” options, should also be used for assistance.

Additionally, admins may need to report the compromised account to WhatsApp directly for further investigation.

To minimize the likelihood of account breaches, NITDA recommends several security practices for all WhatsApp users:

Enable Two-Step Verification: This is a critical step in securing an account. Two-step verification adds a second layer of protection, which significantly reduces the risk of unauthorized access.

Be Cautious with Links and Files: Users should be wary of clicking on unknown links or opening files received from unverified contacts. Such links may lead to malware or phishing schemes.

Regularly Update WhatsApp: Keeping the app up-to-date ensures that users have the latest security patches to prevent hackers from exploiting any vulnerabilities.

Adjust Privacy Settings: Users are advised to customize their privacy settings to control who can see their profile photo, status, and last seen information, limiting exposure to potentially malicious individuals.

Keep Verification Codes Confidential: NITDA warns users never to share their verification codes, even with those posing as WhatsApp support or other trusted services.

Avoid Public Wi-Fi: WhatsApp users should refrain from using the app over unsecured public Wi-Fi networks, as these are more susceptible to data breaches.

By following these guidelines, users can significantly enhance the security of their WhatsApp accounts and protect their personal information from cybercriminals. With the rise in digital threats, NITDA’s advisory aims to empower Nigerians to safeguard their online presence and avoid the growing risks associated with cybercrime.