WhatsApp and SIM Swap: When Your Number Is Taken

WhatsApp trusts whoever receives the code sent to your phone number. So if criminals take control of your number, they can take your WhatsApp too, along with bank and mobile money accounts that rely on text codes.

Warning signs

• Your phone suddenly shows no service or emergency calls only where it usually works.
• You are logged out of WhatsApp without warning.
• Texts or calls about a SIM change you did not request.
• Friends say you are messaging them oddly.

What to do in the first hour

1. Call your mobile network from another phone and say you suspect a SIM swap. Ask them to block the new SIM and restore your number.
2. Call your bank and mobile money provider to freeze accounts linked to the number. See SIM swap fraud.
3. Warn your contacts through other channels. See how.
4. Once your number works again, re-register WhatsApp. See recovery steps.

Reduce the risk

• Turn on WhatsApp two-step verification.
• Ask your network about a port-out or SIM change PIN. See protecting your phone number.
• Set a SIM PIN in case your phone is stolen.
• Keep personal details like your date of birth and ID number private; they are used to fool network staff.

For more, see WhatsApp scams and how to protect your account.

Frequently asked questions

Sources

1. About two-step verification, WhatsApp Help Center
2. How to recover a compromised account, WhatsApp Help Center
3. Account security tips, WhatsApp Help Center