WhatsApp Security Checkup: Ten Minutes to a Safer Account
A quick routine that covers every WhatsApp setting that matters: two-step verification, linked devices, privacy, groups, calls, backups and your phone itself.
Most WhatsApp takeovers and scams succeed because a few protective settings were never switched on. This checkup takes about ten minutes. Do it once, then revisit it every few months.
The checklist
- Two-step verification: Settings, Account, Two-step verification. Set a PIN and add an email. See how.
- Linked devices: log out anything you do not recognise. See linked devices.
- Profile photo and About: set to My contacts. See privacy settings.
- Groups: only My contacts can add you. See stopping group adds.
- Calls: turn on Silence unknown callers. See how.
- Backups: turn on end-to-end encrypted backup and secure the cloud account behind it. See backup security.
- App: make sure you use the official app from your phone's app store, and update it. See unofficial apps.
- Phone lock: a PIN or biometric lock on the phone itself. See phone screen lock.
- SIM PIN: consider a SIM PIN so a stolen SIM cannot be used in another phone. See setting a SIM PIN.
- Your rule: never share your six-digit code or PIN with anyone. See the code scam.
WhatsApp's built-in Privacy checkup (Settings, Privacy) covers several of these steps in one guided flow.
When to repeat it
- After changing or losing a phone.
- After an unexpected code message. See unrequested codes.
- If friends say they got strange messages from you.
Got a suspicious WhatsApp message? Paste it into CyberWatch AI Scan for a free check.
For more, see our complete guide to WhatsApp scams.
Frequently asked questions
How often should I do this?
Once now, then a quick look every few months, and again after changing phones or if anything seems odd.
Which step matters most?
Two-step verification, because it stops the most common takeover: someone tricking you into sharing your six-digit code.
Can I do this for a parent?
Yes, sitting with them. See our guide to setting up WhatsApp for older parents.
Sources
- Account security tips, WhatsApp Help Center
- About privacy checkup, WhatsApp Help Center
- 5 Tips to keep your WhatsApp account safe and secure, WhatsApp Help Center
