VottsUp: Guide on handling Hacked Phones

Guide on handling and securing a hacked Phones/WhatsApp account, as well as understanding how it may have happened.

Guide to Reclaiming and Securing a Hacked WhatsApp Account

If your WhatsApp account is hacked, it’s alarming—but there are steps you can take to regain control and secure your information. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to deal with this situation, identify possible vulnerabilities, and prevent future incidents.

1. Regain Control of the WhatsApp Account

When someone hacks your WhatsApp, they’re essentially logging into your account on another device. Here’s how to get it back:

Re-register WhatsApp with Your Phone Number: Start by uninstalling and reinstalling WhatsApp on your phone. Open WhatsApp, enter your phone number, and wait for the SMS verification code. This code is unique and confirms that you’re the owner of the number. Enter it to log back in. Then log out of all linked devices and enable Two-Step Verification in settings.
Why This Works: WhatsApp can only be active on one device per phone number. By logging in, you automatically log the hacker out from their device.
Enable Two-Step Verification: This option in WhatsApp settings will ask you to set a PIN that’s needed anytime someone tries to log in with your number. This way, even if they get the verification code, they won’t be able to access your account without the PIN.

2. Address Potential SIM Cloning

One common method hackers use is a SIM swap attack or SIM cloning, where they trick the mobile provider's network using a cloned SIM card. This allows the hacker to receive calls and messages (including verification codes) sent to your phone number. Here’s what you should do:

Get a Replacement SIM Card: Go to your mobile provider and request a new SIM card, explaining that your account may have been compromised. This will disable any unauthorized SIM cards linked to your number.
Hacker gains access to Bank OTPs:In cases where a hacker gains access to a cloned SIM, they can intercept One-Time Passwords (OTPs) sent by banks for two-factor authentication (2FA). This creates a significant vulnerability, as these OTPs act as the second layer of security for logging into bank accounts and authorizing transactions. If a hacker receives these codes, they can bypass 2FA, gaining direct access to bank accounts and potentially initiating unauthorized transfers or other transactions. For secure personal banking, it’s essential to safeguard your SIM and consider alternative 2FA methods, like app-based authenticators, which offer greater security by not relying on SMS.
Be Wary of Calls and Messages Related to SIM: Hackers might use social engineering—posing as the mobile provider—to get your information. Be cautious with any suspicious requests for personal details over the phone, especially if they relate to your SIM card or phone account.
Example of a SIM Swap Attack: Imagine you get a call from someone claiming to be from your mobile provider. They ask for personal details, like your date of birth or address, to "confirm" your identity. They might say there’s an issue with your account. If you answer, they could use this information to request a new SIM card and gain control of your phone number.

3. Clean Up Your Device and Check for Suspicious Apps

Hackers sometimes install malicious software, or "malware," on your phone, which can monitor or steal information. Here’s how to make sure your phone is clean:

Run an Antivirus Scan: Install a reputable antivirus app, like Malwarebytes or Bitdefender, and scan for any suspicious apps or files. These tools are good at detecting malware that could be hidden in other apps.
Remove Unfamiliar Apps: If you find apps you didn’t install or don’t recognize, uninstall them. Be especially cautious of apps from unofficial sources.
Consider a Factory Reset: If your phone is acting oddly—like draining battery faster than usual, overheating, or crashing frequently—it could be a sign of a deeper issue. A factory reset will remove everything, including potential malware, but be sure to back up important data first (excluding suspicious apps or recent backups, which could be infected).

4. Secure All Other Linked Accounts

Sometimes, hacking WhatsApp is just the first step. Hackers may try to access other accounts, especially ones connected to your phone, like email. Here’s how to secure them:

Change Your Passwords: Update the passwords for your email, cloud storage, and any other accounts linked to your phone. Strong passwords include a mix of letters, numbers, and symbols, making them harder to guess.
Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): Many services, like Google, iCloud, and others, offer 2FA. It adds an extra layer of security by requiring a second code (usually sent to your phone) when logging in. This means even if a hacker guesses your password, they’ll still need the code to get in.

Possible Ways the Hack Occurred

Understanding how your account might have been compromised can help prevent future issues. Here are some common methods hackers use:

SIM Swap or SIM Cloning
- As mentioned, SIM cloning involves either convincing your mobile provider to issue a duplicate SIM card or physically cloning the SIM by accessing it directly—such as through repair or service centers. Hackers often use personal information they’ve gathered to impersonate you, making it easier to request a duplicate SIM from the provider under your name.
- Tip: Use a PIN or password with your mobile provider, if available, to add a layer of security to your account.
Malicious Apps and Fake Downloads
- Sometimes, hackers hide malware in apps that look safe. When you download them, they secretly gather your information or allow remote access to your phone.
- Example: Imagine you’re downloading a popular game, but you find it on a third-party website, not an official app store. The app could contain malware that gives the hacker access to your contacts, messages, or even your camera.
Phishing Links
- Phishing is a common way hackers trick people into revealing their login information. It can happen through messages, emails, or even WhatsApp itself. These links often look legitimate, but they lead to fake websites where your information gets stolen.
- Example: You receive a message saying, "Your WhatsApp account will be deactivated! Click here to confirm your details." If you click the link and enter your login details, the hacker now has your information.
Unauthorized Access During Phone Repairs
- When your phone is with an unauthorized repair center, technicians could access your contacts, messages, and apps. This isn’t common, but it’s possible.
- Tip: If possible, go to certified repair centers where privacy policies are enforced. Or, if you’re only having basic repairs done (like a screen replacement), make sure to back up your data and log out of sensitive apps beforehand. Plus repair centers does not require your SIM.
Bluetooth and Public Wi-Fi Attacks
- Bluetooth and public Wi-Fi are convenient, but they also pose security risks. Hackers can exploit them to gain access to your device, especially if they’re unsecured or if you keep Bluetooth on in "discoverable" mode.
- Example: You’re at a coffee shop, and your phone automatically connects to the public Wi-Fi. A hacker on the same network might try to intercept your data. Similarly, if Bluetooth is on, they could potentially connect to your device without permission.
Restoring from Compromised Backups
- If your phone or WhatsApp was previously hacked, malware could have been saved in a backup. Restoring from that backup could reintroduce malware to your device.
- Tip: Only restore from clean, verified backups. If you’re unsure, set up your device as new after a reset rather than restoring from an older backup.

Preventing Future Incidents

Once you’ve taken the steps above to secure your phone and accounts, remember these practices to prevent future hacks:

Be Cautious with Links and Attachments: If you receive a link or file that seems out of character for the sender, verify with them before clicking.
Limit App Permissions: Only give apps the permissions they absolutely need. For instance, a simple game doesn’t need access to your contacts or messages.
Keep Software Updated: Updates often include security patches, so keep your phone’s OS and apps up to date.

Final Thoughts

Getting hacked can be unsettling, but understanding the risks and following these steps will help you take back control. Be proactive about security, stay vigilant for any unusual activity, and take simple precautions like using strong passwords and two-factor authentication to protect your accounts.

Access to Contacts, History and Messages

When a hacker gains access to your WhatsApp account, they can potentially access a wide range of personal information, depending on the level of access they’ve managed to achieve. Lets see what they might have control over and what information they could see or misuse:

1. Chat History and Messages

Personal Conversations: Hackers can see all your recent chat history, including personal messages, photos, videos, voice notes, and files shared in each conversation. This could include sensitive information, like financial details or personal issues.
Group Chats: They gain access to any groups you’re part of, allowing them to see group messages and potentially spread misinformation or request money under your identity.
Media Files: All media files (photos, videos, documents) that were shared and downloaded within your WhatsApp chats will be accessible.

2. Contacts and Contact Lists

Contact Information: They can see all the contacts saved on your WhatsApp, including names, phone numbers, and profile pictures, giving them a way to contact these individuals directly.
Broadcast Lists: Any broadcast lists created in your account would also be accessible. Hackers could use this to mass-message your contacts in one go.

3. Profile Information and Status

Profile Picture and About: Hackers can see and even change your profile picture and "About" message. They could use this to impersonate you further or make your profile look suspicious to friends and family.
Status Updates: If you have recent status updates, the hacker can see those and could post their own status updates on your behalf, misleading your contacts.

4. Incoming Messages and Notifications

Live Message Access: While they control your account, they receive any new messages sent to you, meaning they can respond as if they are you. This is how many WhatsApp scams are conducted, where they impersonate the owner to ask for financial help from friends and family.
Message Notifications: Depending on the device setup, the hacker might receive notifications for new messages, meaning they stay informed without even opening the app.

5. Two-Step Verification Information

Two-Step Verification PIN: If two-step verification was not set up, they might set up their own PIN, which can prevent you from easily regaining control of your account.
Email Linked to Two-Step Verification: If they gain access to your email as well, they can further secure control of your WhatsApp and make it challenging for you to regain access.

6. Location Data (If Shared)

Live Location: If you share your location with contacts or in groups, the hacker can see your live location if the feature is currently active. This could potentially compromise your physical security.

7. Backup Access (If They Control Your Google or iCloud Account)

Chat Backups: If the hacker also has access to your Google or iCloud account, they can download and view WhatsApp backups. This would give them access to your entire chat history, even from before the hack, as well as any backed-up media files.
Restoring Backups: They could also restore your chat history on their device if they access your cloud account, gaining further insight into your past conversations.

8. Scamming and Phishing Potential

Impersonation for Scams: With access to your WhatsApp, a hacker can impersonate you, ask friends or family for money, or send phishing links, pretending to need urgent help.
Sensitive Information Requests: They might exploit trust by asking contacts for sensitive information, pretending it’s for a legitimate purpose.

What They Don’t Have Access to (Generally)

Unlinked Data on Your Phone: WhatsApp access typically doesn’t grant access to other apps or data on your phone, like emails, banking apps, or photos not shared on WhatsApp. However, if they’ve installed spyware or malware, they could potentially access more than just WhatsApp.
Deleted Messages: Messages you’ve deleted may not be available unless they are backed up.

In summary, hackers with access to your WhatsApp can use your identity to trick contacts, view personal conversations, and access media files shared in chats. The best way to mitigate this is to secure your account with two-step verification and limit sensitive information sharing on WhatsApp.

What contacts get compromised

When we refer to Contacts and Contact Lists in the context of WhatsApp, it typically means:

Contacts You’ve Interacted With on WhatsApp: The hacker will only see the contacts that have been part of your WhatsApp conversations. This includes individual chats, group chats, and broadcast lists.
WhatsApp Synced Contacts: WhatsApp does have access to contacts you’ve synced with it (when you allow WhatsApp permission to access your phone’s contacts). This allows WhatsApp to display which of your contacts are also using WhatsApp, even if you haven’t chatted with them yet. However, the hacker would only be able to see and interact with the contacts you have chatted with on WhatsApp or any contact they can identify by syncing through WhatsApp’s contact permission.
Not All Contacts in Your Phone’s Contact App: The hacker cannot see every single contact saved in your phone’s contacts app. Only those synced or already visible within WhatsApp are potentially accessible.

So, in short, hackers won’t have access to the full list of contacts stored in your phone’s contacts app—only those that are associated with your WhatsApp account.

Written by : Sanjaya Gunasiri

VottsUp

Saturday, November 2, 2024

Guide on handling Hacked Phones