Hackers steal WhatsApp accounts by tricking people into sharing their login code. These settings stop them, even if they somehow get that code. In August 2026, WhatsApp replaced its old six-digit PIN with stronger passwords, so now is the time to upgrade.
Turn On Two-Step Verification
Two-step verification is the single most important WhatsApp security setting. It adds a password check on top of the SMS login code. Open WhatsApp, go to Settings, then Account, then Two-step Verification.
Create a strong password with at least eight characters. Include letters, numbers, and special characters. For example, a random phrase with symbols beats any birthdate or simple PIN.
Add a recovery email while you are there. It is the only way to reset the password if you forget it. Without an email, you can be locked out for seven days.
This stops the most common attack completely. A hacker who tricks you into sharing your SMS code still hits the password wall. As a result, your account stays yours.
Set Up a Passkey
Passkeys let you log in with your fingerprint or Face ID. No codes, nothing to steal. Go to Settings, then Account, then Passkeys, and follow the setup steps.
You can now save more than one passkey on the same account. This helps if you use both Android and iPhone. In addition, each passkey stays on its own device.
A passkey and two-step verification do different jobs. Keep both turned on. Together, they leave hackers with no workable way into your account.
Check Devices and Spot Scam Calls
Check who is logged into your account. Go to Settings, then Linked Devices. Log out of any device you do not recognize immediately.
Never share a login code with anyone. WhatsApp never asks for your code in a chat. However, scammers pretend to be support staff or relatives to get it.
On Android, WhatsApp now shows extra context for unknown callers. You see the caller’s country and any groups you share. Treat sudden urgency as a red flag, not a reason to rush.
Finally, back up your chats with encryption on. Open Settings, then Chats, then Chat Backup, and turn on end-to-end encrypted backup. Indeed, a secure backup means you can recover safely if anything ever goes wrong.
