WhatsApp, a widely-used messaging app, has endeared itself to millions of users worldwide thanks to its user-friendly interface and end-to-end encryption. However, despite its robust security measures, no system is entirely foolproof.
WhatsApp, too, has vulnerabilities that can potentially expose your messages and data to hackers. In this comprehensive article, we will delve into the 10 ways to hack your WhatsApp messages.
We will explore each method in detail, provide insights into how these hacks work, and offer practical advice on how to protect yourself and your messages.
also read: 10 WhatsApp Tips and Tricks You Must Know: Here Are All Details
Extraordinary 10 Ways Hack WhatsApp Messages 2024
- Remote Code Execution via GIF
- The Pegasus Voice Call Attack
- Socially Engineered Attacks
- Media File Jacking
- Facebook Could Spy on WhatsApp Chats
- Paid Third-Party Apps
- Fake WhatsApp Clones
- WhatsApp’s Web Version
- Exporting Your Chats
- Keyloggers
1. Remote Code Execution via GIF
In October 2019, WhatsApp faced a significant security breach when a vulnerability was exposed that allowed hackers to take control of the app using a seemingly harmless GIF image.
This attack method took advantage of how WhatsApp processed images when the user opened the Gallery view to send a media file.
By sending a malicious GIF, hackers could potentially compromise the user’s entire chat history, and access their messages, files, photos, and videos. Fortunately, the vulnerability was responsibly disclosed and patched by WhatsApp.
The key takeaway here is the importance of keeping your WhatsApp app updated to avoid falling victim to such exploits.
2. The Pegasus Voice Call Attack
Another alarming vulnerability was discovered in WhatsApp in early 2019, known as the Pegasus voice call malware hack.
This attack allowed hackers to access a device simply by placing a WhatsApp voice call to their target, even if the call was unanswered.
The attack exploited a method called buffer overflow, which allowed the hacker to run malicious code on the target device.
After the initial compromise, the attacker could install spyware and gain access to phone calls, messages, photos, and videos, and even activate the device’s camera and microphone.
The importance of keeping your WhatsApp updated is again underscored, as well as the significance of using the latest app versions to protect yourself from this type of attack.
3. Socially Engineered Attacks
Social engineering attacks are a common hacking strategy that exploits human psychology to steal data or spread misinformation.
One such example is the FakesApp attack, which involved manipulating group chats by altering the text of a person’s reply.
While this vulnerability was disclosed in 2018, it had not been patched by 2019, highlighting the need for users to be aware of WhatsApp scams and recognize red flags regularly.
4. Media File Jacking
Media file jacking is a vulnerability that affects both WhatsApp and Telegram. It takes advantage of how these apps receive media files like photos or videos and writes them to a device’s external storage.
Malware hidden inside seemingly harmless apps can swap out real files for fake ones, potentially leading to scams or the spread of fake news.
WhatsApp has taken steps to address this issue, but users can further reduce the risk by disabling the feature that saves media files to external storage and by turning off auto-downloads for media from unknown sources.
5. Facebook Could Spy on WhatsApp Chats
WhatsApp claims to offer end-to-end encryption, but there are potential risks. Facebook and WhatsApp apps use the same shared container on devices, allowing the possibility of Facebook accessing WhatsApp data.
While there’s no evidence that Facebook has used this access for malicious purposes, it’s crucial to be aware that even with end-to-end encryption, messages may not be entirely private from Facebook.
6. Paid Third-Party Apps
Surprisingly, there are paid apps available in the market that claim to hack into secure systems, including WhatsApp.
Apps like Spyzie and mSPY can be used to compromise WhatsApp accounts and steal private data. However, using such apps for malicious purposes is strongly discouraged.
7. Fake WhatsApp Clones
Hackers have been known to use fake website clones to install malware, a tactic that’s not limited to Android systems.
By installing a clone of WhatsApp, which appears similar to the original app, attackers can gain access to your data. Protect yourself by avoiding apps from untrustworthy sources.
8. WhatsApp’s Web Version
WhatsApp’s web version is convenient but potentially risky when used on someone else’s computer.
If the “keep me signed in” checkbox is selected during login, your WhatsApp account remains accessible even after you’ve closed the browser.
To mitigate this risk, always ensure you log out from WhatsApp Web before leaving the computer and avoid using public computers for WhatsApp Web entirely.
9. Exporting Your Chats
One less conventional method of hacking WhatsApp requires physical access to your smartphone for just a few seconds. With this access, a hacker can export your messages to a location they can later access.
To protect yourself, avoid leaving your phone with unfamiliar individuals and consider enabling a fingerprint lock for your WhatsApp.
10. Keyloggers
Keyloggers are software designed to record everything you type on your computer or smartphone.
If a keylogger is installed on your device, your WhatsApp messages and personal information could be compromised.
While a detailed discussion of keyloggers is beyond the scope of this article, you can protect yourself by avoiding suspicious activities, using reputable antivirus software, and keeping your device software updated.
11. Call Forwarding Scams
A newer WhatsApp calling scam emerged in 2024, allowing hackers to compromise your WhatsApp account.
This scam involves convincing you to make a call to a specific number with MMI codes, ultimately enabling call forwarding to the attacker.
Protect yourself by not engaging with calls from strangers, enabling two-factor authentication, and staying informed about the latest cybersecurity trends and updates.
also read: Whatsapp 5 New Cool Features That Will Make Your Life Easier
Wind Up
By going through these 10 ways to hack your WhatsApp messages, You can Sharpen your privacy.
WhatsApp remains a widely used and trusted messaging platform, but as this article has highlighted, it’s not without its vulnerabilities.
While WhatsApp continues to improve its security measures, staying aware of potential threats and taking steps to protect your account is essential.
By following best practices, keeping your app updated, and remaining vigilant, you can minimize the risk of your WhatsApp messages being hacked.
In a digital age where privacy is increasingly valued, these precautions are more important than ever.
I would like to tell you some mu issues that is very obset for people and also me issues is verification code I change my mobile phone and my verification code don’t send to my number so can you help me please ????????
Please raise your concern to whatsapp team on an official mail.