WhatsApp has become one of the most popular messaging apps, with over 2 billion users worldwide. However, despite its popularity, many WhatsApp users have concerns over the privacy and security of their accounts. One common question is – how can someone get my WhatsApp number without my permission?
Ways Your WhatsApp Number Can Be Obtained
There are a few potential ways that someone could get your WhatsApp number without your consent:
1. You Gave Them Your Number
The most obvious way is if you personally gave your WhatsApp number to someone else. This could have been intentionally, such as giving your number to a friend or coworker for communicating on WhatsApp.
However, sometimes numbers are shared unintentionally. For example, you may have signed up for a service or website with your phone number, not realizing that they may share or sell that data. Always be cautious when asked for your number online.
2. They Got Your Number From Someone Else
Even if you did not directly give your WhatsApp number to someone, they may have obtained it from one of your contacts. For example, if you have a coworker, friend, or family member’s number saved in your phone, it’s possible they could access it and share your number without your permission.
This is more likely to happen if you allow backups of your contacts to cloud services or don’t password protect your device. Be selective about who you give your number to minimize the risk of it being shared.
3. They Guessed or “Brute Forced” Your Number
There are ways that people can obtain your WhatsApp number by guessing or “brute forcing.” This involves using software that runs through multiple number combinations until finding one that is registered to an active WhatsApp account.
This can be done manually by trying likely number combinations. However, software and bots make it much easier to guess millions of numbers quickly. Using a very uncommon or randomized number can help avoid this.
4. They Extracted Your Number From Your Phone
One riskier way your WhatsApp number could be obtained is if someone gained direct access to your phone. They could then extract your SIM card number or access WhatsApp settings to view your registered phone number.
Never leave your phone unattended and use device locks, encryption, and antivirus software. Also avoid using public charging stations or lending your phone out where possible.
5. Your Number Was Part of a Data Leak or Hack
Finally, there is always the possibility your phone number was part of a data breach, leak or hack. WhatsApp has faced security issues in the past, including a major vulnerability in 2019 that could be used to install spyware via calls.
Stick to latest versions of apps, use two-factor authentication where possible, and avoid clicking suspicious links to keep your data secure. Monitor your accounts regularly for any suspicious activity.
How to Tell if Someone Has Your Number
If you are concerned about your WhatsApp number’s privacy, here are signs someone else may have obtained it:
1. You Receive Unusual WhatsApp Messages or Calls
If you suddenly start getting WhatsApp messages or calls from numbers you don’t recognize, it could mean someone else has your number. Especially be suspicious of frequent messages from unknown numbers.
2. Your Contacts Receive Spam Messages About You
Another sign is if people in your WhatsApp contacts start getting suspicious messages containing your name, number, or other personal details. This indicates your number may have been compromised.
3. You Stop Receiving Some Messages/Calls on WhatsApp
Some other user registering your number on a new device can disrupt your WhatsApp service. So if you mysteriously stop getting some messages or calls on WhatsApp, it could mean your number is registered elsewhere.
4. Your WhatsApp Web Session Gets Logged Out
If you use WhatsApp Web and your session suddenly gets logged out, it may be because your number logged in elsewhere. Log out of all sessions and consider enabling two-factor authentication.
5. Your Contacts See Your WhatsApp Profile Picture/Status Change
Finally, keep an eye on your profile picture and status in WhatsApp. If your contacts see these change unexpectedly, it likely means someone else has accessed your account.
Preventing Your Number From Being Compromised
Here are some key tips to help protect your WhatsApp number from being obtained by someone else:
1. Be Selective When Sharing Your Number
Only give out your WhatsApp number when absolutely necessary. Avoid posting it publicly online or using it to register on websites you don’t trust.
2. Use Two-Factor Authentication
Enable two-factor authentication with your phone number in WhatsApp’s privacy settings. This requires a 6-digit PIN for registering your number on a new device.
3. Make Your Number More Unique
Using a very common area code and number sequence makes you more vulnerable to brute force attacks. Add uncommon digits to make your number harder to guess.
| Common Number | More Unique Number |
|---|---|
| 123-456-7890 | 123-456-78905 |
4. Regularly Update Your Apps
Ensure WhatsApp and your phone’s OS are updated to the latest versions. Updates frequently include security patches for vulnerabilities.
5. Password Protect Your Phone
Use a strong pin, password, pattern or biometric lock on your phone. This prevents physical access if your device is lost or stolen.
What to Do if Someone Has Your WhatsApp Number
If you believe your WhatsApp number has been compromised, here are important steps to take:
1. Enable Two-Factor Authentication
If you haven’t already, immediately turn on two-factor authentication for your WhatsApp account. This will block any new registrations.
2. Change Your Number
You may need to change your WhatsApp number entirely to take back control of your account. This can be done in WhatsApp’s Change Number option.
3. Contact Your Contacts
Let your WhatsApp contacts know that your old number is compromised and that they shouldn’t message or call it. Provide your new number.
4. Check Linked Accounts
Be sure to also update your number anywhere else it is linked, such as Facebook, Telegram or banking apps. Remove the old number entirely.
5. Perform a Security Check
Do a full security check of your device for malware or spyware that could have gained access to your data. Also change passwords.
Conclusion
Having your WhatsApp number obtained by someone else without your permission can be very concerning. However, with proper precautions like limiting number sharing, enabling two-factor authentication, and using strong password practices, you can minimize this risk significantly.
Be alert for any suspicious activity pointing to a potential compromise and act swiftly to change your number and secure your account and device if needed. With vigilance, you can protect your WhatsApp account privacy.