WhatsApp urges all users to make simple settings change to beat cyber attack

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Messaging and call firm WhatsApp has warned users of the dangers of fake messages and urged people to take action to ensure their accounts are protected against cyber attacks. The Mirror says that with the recent resurgence of a worrying six-digit text scam that can give hackers full access to private chats, WhatsApp has reminded its billions of users worldwide of steps to counter the crooks.

Due to its huge popularity, WhatsApp is a constant target for thieves, but there are simple ways to avoid becoming a victim. These include checking your settings to ensure that your profile picture is private. WhatsApp says this is an easy way to keep your identity safe as strangers cannot view the photo or steal it in a bid to trick friends or contacts into believing that they are speaking to you.

The Mirror says that perhaps the biggest reason to hide your face from view is the dreaded ‘friend in need’ scam. This is where the hacker pretends to be a close family member and asks for money to be transferred due to their phone and wallet being lost or stolen. It is thought that thousands of pounds have been stolen using this method and it continues to be a favoured tactic used by online crooks.

Along with changing your profile picture, WhatsApp has also issued some other advice to help users avoid having their accounts hacked. This includes taking time to think before responding and never sharing codes sent to your phone if you have not asked for them.

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Here are the latest tips you should know:

STOP: Take five before you respond. Make sure your WhatsApp two-step verification is switched on to protect your account; that you're happy with your privacy settings, and your six-digit pin is secure.

THINK: Does this request make sense? Are they asking you to share a PIN code which they have had sent to you? Are they asking for money? Are they rushing you into taking action? Remember that scammers prey on people’s kindness, trust and willingness to help.

CALL: Verify that it really is your friend or family member by calling them directly, or asking them to share a voice note. Only when you’re 100% sure the request is from someone you know and trust, should you consider it. If it turns out to be untrue, report it to Action Fraud.

A WhatsApp spokesperson told Mirror.co.uk: "WhatsApp protects your personal messages with end-to-end encryption, but we can all play a role in keeping our accounts safe by remaining vigilant to the threat of scammers.

"If you receive a suspicious message (even if you think you know who it’s from), calling or requesting a voice note is the fastest and simplest way to check someone is who they say they are. If you get a message from someone who isn't in your contacts, we give you the option to block or report them straight away.”