Tech Desk 
Oct 18, 2024
Pakistan's National Computer Emergency Response Team (nCERT) has released a cybersecurity alert to help protect WhatsApp users from increasing cyber-attacks.
Given WhatsApp's widespread personal and professional use, it has become a target for cyberattacks, with hackers using phishing and other techniques to compromise user accounts.
nCERT guidelines for WhatsApp users
To prevent unauthorised access, nCERT has advised WhatsApp users to create stronger passwords for their accounts and prevent using obvious combinations such as “123456” or birthdates. Complex passwords can be created by using different characters, numbers, and symbols.
Read more: PTA crackdown on illegal SIMs — Third phase begins
To add an extra security layer, the advisory has asked to enable the two-factor authentication (2FA) feature on WhatsApp.
Accessible via WhatsApp settings, it ensures that even when a hacker gets access to the user’s SIM card, they cannot re-register the WhatsApp account without the PIN code.
Users must follow advanced security practices, including locking WhatsApp with biometrics and avoiding using public Wi-Fi networks without a VPN.
nCERT also suggests configuring privacy settings to limit who can view profile details. WhatsApp users are also asked to stay updated about recent security updates from the platform, avoid interacting with suspicious links, and report suspicious activities directly to the platform.
By following nCERT's guidelines, individuals and government employees can minimise the risk of unauthorised account access.
