Keeping your WhatsApp and phone safe

Lock your phone

A screen lock stops other people from opening your phone if it is lost or stolen.

You can use a PIN (a number), a pattern or your fingerprint. Choose a PIN that is not your birthday and not 1234.

The 6-digit code

When someone sets up WhatsApp on a phone, WhatsApp sends a 6-digit code by text message to that phone number.

That code is the key to your WhatsApp. If you give it away, the other person can take over your WhatsApp. They can read your chats and message your family pretending to be you.

Scammers say “I sent my code to you by mistake”. It is not their code. It is yours.

Turn on two-step verification

Two-step verification adds a PIN that only you know. Even if someone gets your 6-digit code, they still cannot take your WhatsApp without this PIN.

1. Open WhatsApp.
2. Tap the three dots at the top right, then tap Settings.
3. Tap Account, then Two-step verification.
4. Tap Turn on.
5. Type a 6-digit PIN you will remember, then type it again.
6. Add your email address if you have one, in case you forget the PIN.

It is fine to ask a family member to help you do this.

When a friend’s account acts strange

If a friend suddenly asks you for money, for a code, or to “vote” for them by link, their account may have been taken over.

Call them on their usual phone number to check. Don’t send anything until you have spoken to them.