Cyberattacks through messaging applications such as WhatsApp are becoming more frequent. One of the settings that users often leave enabled by default is automatic file downloading. This feature, while useful in some ways, can be an open door for cyber attackers.
One of the main recommendations to protect your device is Disable the option to automatically download images and files. This setting, which is enabled by default, can not only fill up your phone’s memory with unwanted files, but also allows hackers to send bad files that are downloaded without your knowledge or conscious approval. To disable this option, you need to go to ‘Settings’ in WhatsApp, then ‘Storage & Data’ and disable automatic file downloading.
Other security measures to prevent cyber attacks
Protecting your WhatsApp account and personal data is essential in a digital environment that is increasingly exposed to threats. To avoid being a victim of these scamsit is crucial to adopt a series of practices that, although at first glance are obvious, are not usually taken into account.
- Do not share passwords. Keys and passwords are personal and non-transferable.
- Do not resend verification codes. You should never forward or enter codes that have not been previously requested by us.
- Avoid suspicious links. You should not click on suspicious links, even if they come from friends or from people who claim to be from the technical team of the application itself.
- Beware of unusual messagesPay special attention to messages from unusual contacts who may try to trick you into giving you your data.
- Enable two-step verificationThis option adds an extra layer of security by requiring a PIN in addition to the verification code.
What to do if you have been the victim of a cyber attack
If you suspect that you have been the victim of a cyberattack on WhatsApp,
- Keep calmIt is important to remain calm in order to act clearly and effectively.
- Disconnect from the network. In case you have clicked on a link that you shouldn’t haveTo prevent the attack from spreading, it is crucial to disconnect the device from the Internet. On mobile devices, it is enough to put them in “airplane mode”. This action isolates the system, allowing technicians to address the problem without risk of the attack spreading.
- Inform your contacts. Notify your close contacts using another phone or via SMS to prevent them from falling into the same trap.
- File a complaint. Go to the nearest Police Headquarters or Police Station and file a complaint with all possible information, such as screenshots and conversations.
- Check modifications. Once you regain control of your account, check for any changes to your conversations, groups, or contacts.
- Install an antivirusAn antivirus can help you detect and remove possible malware or malicious links.
If you have been a victim of the six-digit scam, You can try to recover your WhatsApp account by requesting a new verification codecollects Europa Press. If the scammers have blocked the accountyou may need to wait for some time before you can reactivate it. In case this option does not work, send an email to support@whatsapp.com requesting to deactivate your account. In the email, include ‘Deactivation of my +34 account’ followed by your phone number.
However, the SMS verification system is not entirely secure, as evidenced by common frauds such as the six-digit scam. For this reason, the application has reportedly started the global deployment of a new security feature in its iOS version: security keys or passkeyswhich will replace the previous method if the user decides to activate them.