WhatsApp Hacked: What to Do If Your Account Was Compromised

Even though WhatsApp is considered incredibly safe, your account can still be compromised in unexpected ways – often when you're using unsafe networks like public Wi‑Fi or shared internet hotspots. These dangerous networks allow malicious attackers to spy on your precious data or intercept verification codes.

This is where Mysterium VPN becomes a vital part of your personal cybersecurity toolkit – we work hard to encrypt your internet traffic, keeping malicious hackers from snooping on your personal data even before you open WhatsApp.

In this Mysterium VPN blog post, we’ll break down exactly what you should do if your WhatsApp account is hacked, how to recover it, and how to keep those pesky hackers out for good. Ready? Let’s roll.

Can WhatsApp Be Hacked?

WhatsApp is a Meta-owned messaging app with more than 3 billion monthly users. In 2016, WhatsApp announced that it had implemented end-to-end encryption to "every form of communication" on WhatsApp, and that users could now verify each other's keys. Encryption is facilitated with the Signal Protocol, also used on the Signal app, endorsed by political activists, including Edward Snowden. So, yes, WhatsApp is incredibly safe. But it’s not impenetrable. 

Even if the app itself is armed to the teeth, risks arise depending on how you use the app. But the app's encryption doesn’t protect you from threats outside the app itself, like phishing links, malicious downloads, SIM swap or voicemail attacks, or snooping on insecure Wi‑Fi networks. 

To avoid this, the best thing you can do is use a VPN while you’re relying on unsecured Wi-Fi. When you connect to a remote VPN network, your IP address is hidden from plain view, and your internet traffic is encrypted. 

Basically, it’s like wearing a long-sleeved thermal shirt underneath your sweater when you're outside when it’s below freezing – yes, the bulky sweater (WhatsApp’s encryption) will keep you warm, but if you want to be toasty, wearing a thermal T-shirt underneath (a VPN connection) will fill all the gaps where air (hackers and cybercriminals alike) could get in. 

How To Know if My WhatsApp Is Hacked?

If your WhatsApp account has been compromised, there are usually clear warning signs. You must watch out for the following:

You’re Suddenly Logged Out

If WhatsApp logs you out without warning, it may mean someone else has registered your phone number on another device. WhatsApp only allows one active session per number, so this is often the first sign of a takeover.

You Receive Repeated Verification Prompts

Repeated prompts for verification codes sent to your phone or email inbox often mean that someone is trying to register your number on a new device or intercept your SMS or voice call codes.

Your Profile Changes Without Your Input

Unexpected changes to your profile details, like your name, address, profile picture, or email, or privacy settings, may mean an attacker has already gained access and is modifying your account to their needs.

Suspicious Messages Sent From Your Number

Hackers commonly impersonate you to ask for money, links, or verification codes. If any of your contacts flag unusual messages coming from you, you must treat them as an immediate red flag.

Unknown Devices Are Linked Devices

If you see devices you don’t recognize in your setting’s Linkend Devices section, your WhatsApp account may still be actively accessed through WhatsApp Web or another linked session.

You’re Added to Random Group Chats

If you’re being added to random, unfamiliar group chats, this can indicate automated spam activity or misuse of your compromised account. Basically, someone overtook your account and is now running wild.

Your Phone Behaves Unusually

If you notice your phone or tablet’s battery overheating, rapid battery drain (much quicker than normal), or sluggish performance, those can all be signs of malware, spyware, or malicious apps tied to the compromise.

If you notice any of these signs, you must act quickly; the faster you respond, the easier it is to regain control of your WhatsApp account. Let’s move on to what you can do

What To Do if Your WhatsApp Account Is Hacked?

If your WhatsApp account has been hacked, time is critical. Whether you’ve been locked out or just suspect something’s wrong, follow these steps to recover your account – and secure it moving forward.

1. Open WhatsApp: If you’re still receiving messages, it’s possible the attacker hasn’t fully taken control of your account yet. Try reinstalling the app and entering your phone number to receive a 6-digit verification code via SMS. If you enter this code before the hacker does, you’ll kick them out of the account. 
2. Request a new verification code: Even if you're already logged out, you can still reclaim access by requesting a new verification code. Enter it ASAP; this forces out any unauthorized users unless they've already set up two-step verification (2FA).
3. Notify WhatsApp support: If you're locked out or suspect unusual activity, contact the WhatsApp support team from their website. Include your phone number in full international format (e.g., +1 555 123 4567) and a brief description of what happened.
4. Log out unknown devices: Once back into your account, head to Settings, then to Linked Devices, and review all logged-in sessions. End anything you don’t recognize. 
5. Reinstall WhatsApp: After you regain access (or while you're trying), it’s important to not just fix the problem but also plug the holes that led to the hack in the first place.
6. Enable 2FA: This is essential to prevent future instances of account hacking. Go to your Settings and create a PIN that only you know. Add a recovery email in case you forget it.
7. Scan for malware: Use a reputable mobile antivirus app to scan your phone. Look for keyloggers, spyware, Trojans disguised as harmless apps, and any unfamiliar or suspicious apps you don’t remember installing.
8. Change all related passwords: Start with your main email address. Then, use a password manager to create strong, unique passwords for each. Avoid reusing credentials between platforms.
9. Inform your contacts: Warn your contacts that your account was compromised. Post a WhatsApp Status update, and send messages in key groups, letting people know not to trust anything strange they received from you recently.

How Can You Prevent Hackings On WhatsApp?

Once your account is recovered, prevention becomes the priority. Most WhatsApp hacks happen due to avoidable security gaps.

Lock Down Your WhatsApp Account

Enable two-step verification if you haven’t already, and use a strong, unique PIN. Add a recovery email address so you don’t lose access if you forget the PIN. Regularly review your WhatsApp privacy and security settings.

Avoid Phishing and Social Engineering Scams

Never share verification codes, two-step verification PINs, or backup details with anyone – even if they claim to be WhatsApp support, a friend, or your mobile carrier. Be especially cautious with shortened links, urgent messages, and unexpected requests for money.

Reduce Exposure on Risky Networks

Public and shared Wi-Fi networks are one of the biggest reasons WhatsApp accounts get hacked. Attackers can intercept traffic, monitor sessions, or attempt to steal verification codes.

Using a VPN adds an extra security layer by encrypting your internet connection and hiding your IP address, making it much harder for hackers to spy on your activity. This is especially important when using WhatsApp on public Wi-Fi in cafes, airports, hotels, or coworking spaces.

You can learn more about protecting your connection with our WhatsApp VPN solution.

Keep Your Device Clean and Updated

Only install WhatsApp from official app stores. Avoid modified or unofficial versions of the app. Keep your phone’s operating system updated and regularly scan for malware or suspicious apps that could compromise your account.

Final Thoughts

WhatsApp is fundamentally secure thanks to its end-to-end encryption, which ensures that only you and your contacts can read messages and access calls. However, no app is completely immune; accounts can still be compromised through phishing links, SIM swap attacks, malware, or using unsecured Wi-Fi networks. 

If your WhatsApp account is hacked, it’s crucial to act quickly: re-register your number, request a new verification code, remove unknown linked devices, enable two-step verification, and alert your contacts. Long-term prevention involves maintaining strong account security, being vigilant against social engineering, keeping devices clean and updated, and securing your SIM and email. 

Using a VPN, such as Mysterium VPN, adds an extra layer of protection by encrypting your internet traffic and masking your IP address, especially on public or shared networks. Combined, these steps help ensure your WhatsApp remains private, secure, and resilient against hackers. Try it today!

Frequently Asked Questions

Do you still have any questions about what to do if your WhatsApp account was hacked? Find the answers below or contact the app’s customer support for more personalized advice.

Is WhatsApp safe from hackers?

WhatsApp uses strong end-to-end encryption, but accounts can still be compromised through phishing, SIM swaps, malware, or unsecured networks. Security depends on both the app and user behavior.

Can you get hacked on WhatsApp?

Yes. That’s because most WhatsApp hacks don’t break encryption – they exploit verification codes, linked devices, social engineering, or insecure internet connections.

How to report a hacked WhatsApp account?

To report a hacked WhatsApp account, you should contact WhatsApp support directly and include your phone number in full international format along with a description of the issue.

How to secure a hacked WhatsApp account?

Re-register your number, remove linked devices, enable two-step verification, secure your SIM card and email, change related passwords, and avoid using WhatsApp on unsecured networks without protection.