Criminals Can Intercept SMS Messages

The Cyber Police of the Ministry of Internal Affairs notes: “In recent days, there has been a surge in the mass ‘theft’ of WhatsApp accounts in Armenia. In this case, criminals do not need you to click on any link or to provide them with a code received via SMS.

Technically speaking, criminals can target the SS7 protocol of mobile networks (essentially, the ‘postal service’ operating between mobile operators) and intercept SMS messages sent from international mobile companies.

How to Protect Yourself: The only and most effective measure is to enable Two-step verification. Even if criminals manage to access your account, they will not be able to use it without your designated PIN code.

How to Enable:

1. Open WhatsApp and go to Settings.
2. Select Account.
3. Click on Two-step verification.
4. Click on Turn on and set a 6-digit PIN code (make sure to remember it).
5. Add your email address for recovery in case you forget the code.

If you suddenly receive any code via SMS from WhatsApp and your app unexpectedly logs you out, immediately try to recover it (try to register again using your phone number) and inform your close contacts that fake messages may be sent from your name.