WhatsApp Hacked? Step-by-Step Account Recovery
Logged out of WhatsApp, or friends getting strange messages from you? Re-register your number, deal with a PIN you didn't set, warn contacts and lock the account down.
If WhatsApp suddenly logs you out, or friends say "you" have been asking them for money, your account has likely been taken over. The good news: because WhatsApp is tied to your phone number, you can usually take it back.
Step 1: re-register your number
- Make sure your SIM is in your phone and working. If your number has stopped working entirely, call your mobile network first. See SIM swap.
- Open WhatsApp, enter your number and request a code.
- Enter the six-digit code you receive. This moves the account back to your phone and logs out the scammer.
Step 2: if it asks for a PIN you did not set
The scammer turned on two-step verification to lock you out. If you cannot reset it, you will need to wait before WhatsApp lets you register without it. Keep trying to register; re-registering still logs the scammer out. See locked out by a PIN you didn't set.
Step 3: warn your contacts
Use another channel, such as texts, calls or social media, to tell people not to send money or codes. See how to warn your contacts.
Step 4: lock it down
- Turn on two-step verification with your own PIN and email.
- Check and log out linked devices.
- Follow the full after-recovery checklist.
Only contact WhatsApp through the app or its official website. People offering to "recover" your account for a fee on social media are scammers. See contacting WhatsApp support safely.
If money was lost
If friends sent money to the scammer, they should call their bank or mobile money provider immediately. See reporting WhatsApp scams.
For more, see WhatsApp scams and how to protect your account.
Frequently asked questions
How do I get my WhatsApp back?
Open WhatsApp on your phone, register your number and enter the six-digit code you receive. This logs the other person out.
It asks for a two-step PIN I never set. What now?
The scammer set it. If you cannot reset it by email, WhatsApp's help centre says you must wait before you can register without it. Re-registering still logs the scammer out.
Can the scammer read my old chats?
Chats are stored on your device, so a scammer who registers your number on their phone does not normally get your old message history. They can see new messages and your groups while they have the account.
Sources
- How to recover a compromised account, WhatsApp Help Center
- How to contact WhatsApp Support, WhatsApp Help Center
- About two-step verification, WhatsApp Help Center
