If someone asks you for your 6-digit WhatsApp verification code out of the blue, it’s most likely part of a scam attempt to hack into your WhatsApp account. Here are some quick answers about why scammers want your code and tips to avoid falling victim to this scam:
What is the WhatsApp verification code scam?
The WhatsApp verification code scam typically works like this:
- You receive an unsolicited message from an unknown number asking you to provide your 6-digit WhatsApp verification code.
- The scammer will claim your code is needed to verify your identity or activate your new device.
- If you provide the code, the scammer can use it to verify your phone number on their own device.
- This gives them access to your WhatsApp account, enabling them to message your contacts to perpetrate further scams.
WhatsApp’s verification codes are intended to be private and only used by you to verify your phone number during WhatsApp registration or when adding WhatsApp to a new device. Scammers exploit this verification process to trick unsuspecting users into handing over their codes.
Why do scammers want your WhatsApp code?
Scammers have several motivations for wanting access to your WhatsApp account:
- Messaging your contacts: With access to your account, scammers can message your saved contacts and attempt to scam them too. This allows them to quickly reach many potential victims.
- Spreading misinformation: Scammers can use compromised accounts to spread fake news or misinformation, which appears more credible coming from a friend’s account.
- Phishing for personal information: Access to your account also lets scammers impersonate you and phish for sensitive info from your contacts such as bank details.
- Committing financial fraud: Scammers may request money from your contacts by impersonating you in a state of fake emergency.
In summary, gaining control of your WhatsApp gives scammers an easy pathway to reach and take advantage of more people in your network.
How can scammers access my WhatsApp with just the verification code?
WhatsApp allows the 6-digit verification code to be used in place of your regular account password to register your phone number. So if a scammer enters your phone number and the correct 6-digit code on their device, WhatsApp will allow them to verify and access your account.
This verification code mechanism makes it easy to register your number across new devices. However, in the wrong hands, it also provides a simple way for scammers to hijack accounts.
How can I recognize a WhatsApp verification code scam?
Here are some telltale signs that a request for your WhatsApp verification code is a scam attempt:
- The request comes from an unknown, suspicious-looking number not saved in your contacts.
- You are not trying to verify your number or register WhatsApp on a new device at the time.
- The message uses urgency, threats, or other manipulation tactics to convince you to share the code.
- You cannot independently verify the real identity of the person requesting the code.
- The request comes via an unusual method like SMS instead of through WhatsApp messaging.
If you receive a code but aren’t expecting one, do not share it with anyone. Legitimate services will never ask you to simply give out your verification code out of context.
How can I avoid the WhatsApp verification scam?
Here are some tips to help avoid falling victim to scammers trying to hijack your WhatsApp account:
- Turn on two-step verification. This adds an extra PIN requirement to help protect your account.
- Never share your code. Treat WhatsApp verification codes as confidential as your passwords.
- Warn contacts. Alert friends and family to beware of any strange WhatsApp messages requesting codes.
- Review privacy settings. Limit who can see your profile photo, status, etc. to make impersonation harder.
- Carefully verify links and files. Scammers may send dangerous malware to compromise your device after taking over your account.
Staying vigilant against requests for your WhatsApp verification code will help keep your account secure against the most common scam tactics.
What should I do if I shared my WhatsApp code with a scammer?
If you mistakenly provided your WhatsApp verification code to a scammer, take these steps right away:
- Force logout of all WhatsApp sessions at https://www.whatsapp.com/qrcode. This will kick the scammer out of your account.
- Reset your verification code. Go to WhatsApp > Settings > Verification and select Reset. This invalidates the code the scammer has.
- Enable two-step verification for added security moving forward.
- Change your privacy settings to limit profile visibility.
- Warn your contacts about the potential compromise and to disregard any unusual messages.
- Monitor your account closely for fraudulent activity over the next few weeks.
Acting quickly can help minimize the damage from accidentally sharing your WhatsApp code. But your vigilance against code requests remains key to keeping your account truly secure.
Can I report a WhatsApp verification code scam?
If you receive a suspicious message requesting your WhatsApp verification code, you can report it to WhatsApp by:
- On Android: Go to WhatsApp > More options > Settings > Help > Contact us
- On iPhone: Go to WhatsApp > Settings > Help > Contact us
WhatsApp’s support team reviews reports of scam attempts and takes measures to block abusive numbers. The more users who report these scams, the better WhatsApp can optimize detections and protections.
You should also report the scam phone number to authorities in your area to help identify and stop illegal phishing operations.
Conclusion
Verify your identity only with services you fully trust. WhatsApp verification codes can provide scammers with an easy way to hijack your account and compromise your security. Stay alert about any out-of-context requests for your private 6-digit code. With vigilance and common sense, you can help protect yourself and your contacts against this popular scam tactic targeting WhatsApp users.