PSD’s Cybercrime Unit warns of WhatsApp account theft

Amman: The Public Security Directorate (PSD) warned against stealing a WhatsApp account for the purpose of financial and electronic fraud, by responding to messages requesting or containing the user's verification or registration code information. The PSD spokesperson indicated that a number of complaints were received by the Cybercrime Unit from citizens whose WhatsApp accounts were hacked by unknown parties. The Cybercrime Unit explained the need to be alert and cautious when dealing with these messages, and follow the guidelines to prevent falling victim to this type of fraud. It added that if your phone receives a notification to request a WhatsApp registration code (as shown in the illustration) without you asking for it, it is an indication of an attempt to access your account, stressing that to ensure greater protection of the account, follow the instructions below: First, enable two-step verification: Go to WhatsApp settings, select "Account", then "Two-Step Verification", and activate this featur e, which will add an additional layer of security that requires a PIN code when registering your phone number with WhatsApp, which prevents hackers from accessing the account if they try to do so. Second, update the app regularly: Ensure that the WhatsApp app is constantly updated to get the latest security features and technical fixes. The Cybercrime Unit emphasized its keenness on the security of citizens and residents through its efforts to protect them from the material and moral damage that may result from becoming a victim of cybercrime, calling for caution when dealing with any unusual messages. Source: Jordan News Agency