WhatsApp is one of the most popular applications for millions of users around the world. Every day, thousands of messages are sent through this app, sometimes including very valuable personal or commercial information. Therefore, it is normal for you to be very worried about being spied on by someone who is spying on your account on the platform. What methods are most frequently used to steal information on WhatsApp? How can you prevent someone from accessing your user? In this guide, we will tell you all about WhatsApp spying.
What are the most common ways to spy on WhatsApp?
A user viewing a WhatsApp chat
There are some common methods that attackers use to get access to a WhatsApp account without the owner's authorization. Knowing them closely will help you prevent possible intrusions.
With a computer
WhatsApp has been able to link to computers for years. Sessions logged on to a shared computer are the gateway for someone else to read your conversations or review the messages you receive.
With a spy application
Another common way an unauthorized user can take control of WhatsApp is by installing spyware on the phone. This is actually more common than you think and lets the attacker watch your phone's screen or even control it.
Using your account on another phone
Logging in with another smartphone to your account is not an overly complicated process. In that case, the cyber-criminal will get access to your account and will be able to send messages, videos, photos, and other content to any WhatsApp user.
With social engineering techniques
Social engineering techniques are very diverse. Maybe someone is asking you for a code, that for some strange reason, was sent to your number and is the one that confirms access to your account. Or you may be asked to scan the WhatsApp Web QR and thus enable the login. There are even methods to remotely record the screen of a smartphone or computer to know its content.
Signs that you are being spied on WhatsApp
A phone running WhatsApp
Some signs may lead you to think that someone is spying on your WhatsApp account. Let's take a quick look at some of them.
The battery runs out quickly
Battery drain may indicate that applications are running in the background. This is the most normal operation of spyware, constantly running so the attacker has access to the smartphone at will.
You notice unusual behavior in the device
Another possible indicator that your phone has been attacked is if you notice certain strange behaviors, such as apps that open by themselves, ghost touches on the screen, or unauthorized installations. This could mean that someone is monitoring your phone in the shadows and therefore has access to your WhatsApp account.
The phone is running applications in the background
Some manufacturers let you check the list of applications that are running in the background. Have you found any unusual software in it that you have not installed? It may be a spyware program that provides a backdoor for an attacker to spy on the contents of your device.
You have been logged out of your smartphone without having requested it
In case WhatsApp alerts you that someone has requested an activation code, a user may be trying to get access to your account. Be very careful with it! If you are logged out on your mobile, it means that the attacker has managed to get into your profile. Remember: WhatsApp does not support keeping an account active on two phones at the same time.
There are open sessions in WhatsApp Web that you have not started.
Finally, there is a detail that should raise a red flag: seeing several WhatsApp Web sessions that you have not opened. This could be because another user is logged in with your phone on their computer and is reading your conversations as a result.
The best tips to avoid being spied on in WhatsApp
A user opens WhatsApp to read messages
So far we have told you about the most common ways to spy on WhatsApp and the red flags you should be on the alert for. Now, it is time to learn how to avoid them.
Use secure locking methods
Activate all available locking methods on your device. We highly recommend setting up the fingerprint sensor and facial recognition together with a long alphanumeric code.
Watch where you leave your smartphone
Leaving your smartphone accessible to other users is a bad idea, especially if you do not use any security system to prevent unauthorized access. This is especially important in risky environments, such as public places, the office, or the gym, just to give a few examples.
Beware of Internet downloads
Download files and applications only from trusted Internet sources, such as the official Google Store or Malavida. In no case is it safe to download files from illegal sites or fraudulently activated software.
Avoid granting root access to unknown applications
If it is not necessary, avoid accessing root privileges on your Android device. If you have no choice but to do so, grant access only to applications that you trust completely.
Do not use links that you receive by SMS
It is quite common to receive fraudulent SMS messages that include links. They could lead you to download a spy application without even realizing it. After installation, this type of software goes unnoticed by the user and is difficult to remove.
When you are done using WhatsApp on a shared PC, log out.
Having a good habit of logging out of shared computers, such as those in the office, is essential to avoid unauthorized access. Open the main menu in WhatsApp and select the linked devices button.
Open the linked devices section
Tap on the session you wish to close to continue.
Press on the linked device
Finally, use the logout button to log out of that computer.
Log out on the PC
Remember that you can perform this action even from a distance.
Restore the device
Finally, we highly recommend that if you have noticed any unusual behavior on your smartphone, you should restore the device. This will remove all applications and ensure that no trace of spyware is left behind.
