Received a WhatsApp Code You Didn't Request
A WhatsApp registration code you didn't request usually means someone is trying to register your number. What to do, what not to do, and how to make sure they can't succeed.
A text arrives: "Your WhatsApp code is 123-456. Don't share this code with others." You did not ask for it. This almost always means someone has entered your phone number while trying to set up WhatsApp on their device.
What to do
- Do not share the code with anyone, however they ask.
- Check WhatsApp still works on your phone. If it does, your account is still yours.
- Turn on two-step verification if it is not already on. See how.
- Watch for a follow-up message asking for the code. That is the scam. See the verification code scam.
Expect a convincing excuse. The request often comes from a friend's hacked account, or someone pretending to be WhatsApp support. The answer is always no.
Also check
- Your voicemail PIN. Some attackers request a voice call code, hoping it lands in voicemail. See voicemail hacking.
- Your phone signal. If your SIM suddenly stops working, call your network: it may be a SIM swap.
- Your linked devices. See linked devices.
If you already shared it
Act now: follow recovering a hacked WhatsApp.
For more, see WhatsApp scams and how to protect your account.
Frequently asked questions
Is my account already hacked?
Not if you have not shared the code and WhatsApp still works on your phone. The code on its own does not give anyone access.
Could it be a genuine mistake?
Occasionally someone mistypes a number. It does not matter either way: never share the code.
Why do I keep getting codes?
Someone may be repeatedly trying. Make sure two-step verification is on and ignore the codes.
Sources
- Received verification code without requesting it, WhatsApp Help Center
- About two-step verification, WhatsApp Help Center
- Account security tips, WhatsApp Help Center
