The Cyber Security Authority (CSA) reports a sharp rise in social engineering attacks on WhatsApp, leading to unauthorized access and account takeovers. As of April 2024, there have been 187 reported incidents, matching the total for all of 2023. Victims are tricked into sharing their WhatsApp verification codes with malicious actors, resulting in these breaches. The CSA urges users to stay vigilant and never share verification codes with anyone. 

The CSA also recommends enabling two-step verification on WhatsApp for added security. This feature requires a PIN in addition to the verification code when registering your phone number, providing an extra layer of protection against account takeovers. Users should also be cautious of unsolicited messages and calls, especially those requesting personal information or verification codes. For further guidance on securing your accounts, visit the CSA's website or contact their helpline. Stay informed, stay secure.

The CSA emphasizes the importance of educating oneself about common social engineering tactics used by cybercriminals. These tactics often involve impersonating trusted contacts or organizations to gain trust and manipulate victims into divulging sensitive information.

Additionally, users should regularly review their privacy settings on WhatsApp and other social media platforms to control who can see their information and contact them. Updating passwords regularly and using unique passwords for different accounts can further enhance security.

For those who suspect their account has been compromised, the CSA advises immediate action: contact WhatsApp support to recover your account, inform your contacts about the breach to prevent further spread, and report the incident to the CSA for further investigation and support.

Stay proactive about cybersecurity, and regularly keep up with updates and best practices to protect yourself from evolving threats.