WhatsApp is End-to-End Encrypted, but Can It Still Be Hacked? Here’s the Truth!

Sat, 15 Feb 2025 19:04 | Internet and Telecommunication | Editorial INTI

Jakarta, INTI – WhatsApp is known as a messaging app that prioritizes user security with its End-to-End Encryption system. This system is claimed to protect messages, photos, videos, voice recordings, documents, voice calls, and even WhatsApp statuses from unauthorized access. But does this really make WhatsApp 100% safe from hacking? The answer may surprise you!

What is End-to-End Encryption in WhatsApp?

End-to-End Encryption in WhatsApp is a security system that locks messages with special cryptography, ensuring that only the sender and receiver can read them. Even WhatsApp itself cannot access these messages.

When a user sends a message, the system automatically encrypts the data before it reaches the recipient. The recipient has a unique key to unlock the encryption, ensuring that messages remain safe and inaccessible to third parties, including hackers or even WhatsApp.

However, while this feature protects messages from direct interception, there are still other vulnerabilities that allow hackers to take over a WhatsApp account. How do they do it?

Can WhatsApp Still Be Hacked? Here’s How!

Although message content is encrypted, WhatsApp accounts can still be compromised if hackers manage to take control of them. This hacking doesn’t occur due to encryption weaknesses but rather due to security loopholes in how users access their accounts. Here are some common hacking methods:

OTP (One Time Password) Theft

WhatsApp uses an OTP code sent via SMS as a way to log into a user’s account. If this OTP code falls into the wrong hands, hackers can take over and control the account. Common methods used by hackers include:

Social Engineering: Hackers pretend to be official representatives or trusted individuals to trick victims into sharing their OTP codes.
Malware or Malicious Apps: Users unknowingly install harmful apps that can read SMS messages and steal OTP codes without their knowledge.

Forgotten Logout on WhatsApp Web

WhatsApp Web allows users to access WhatsApp on a computer. If someone forgets to log out from another device, their account remains open and accessible to others without requiring an OTP.

Spyware Attacks

Hackers can use spyware to infiltrate a victim’s device and monitor WhatsApp activities. Spyware often disguises itself as a harmless app and gets installed without the user’s awareness.

How to Secure Your WhatsApp from Hacking?

To keep your WhatsApp account safe, follow these steps:

Enable Two-Step Verification

WhatsApp offers a Two-Step Verification feature that requires an additional PIN when logging in. Enable this feature to prevent account theft through OTP hijacking.

Never Share Your OTP!

OTP codes are confidential and should only be used for logging into your account. If anyone asks for your OTP, it’s most likely an attempt to hack your account.

Be Cautious with Third-Party Apps

Avoid installing unauthorized or suspicious apps. Only download apps from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store to minimize security risks.

Check Devices Connected to WhatsApp Web

Regularly check devices linked to your WhatsApp Web under Settings > Linked Devices and immediately log out from any unknown or suspicious devices.

Conclusion: Secure, But Stay Vigilant!

While WhatsApp is protected by End-to-End Encryption, it does not make your account 100% immune to hacking. The main threat is not the encryption itself but rather users’ weaknesses in safeguarding their account access. Therefore, always stay alert and apply extra security measures to protect your WhatsApp account from hacking!

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