How to Log Out from a Hacked WhatsApp

How to Log Out from a Hacked WhatsApp on Android and iOS: A Complete Guide

In the digital age, WhatsApp is one of the most commonly used messaging apps for millions of users. However, with increased use comes increased risk, and your WhatsApp account can become a target for hackers. 

If you suspect that your WhatsApp account has been hacked, taking immediate steps to log out and secure your account is crucial. 

This guide will walk you through the process of logging out from a hacked WhatsApp on both Android and iOS devices, with tips to secure your account afterward.

Signs That Your WhatsApp Has Been Hacked

Before you take any action, it’s important to identify whether your WhatsApp has indeed been compromised. Here are some key indicators:

• Messages sent in your chats without your knowledge or unusual conduct.
• You are logged out unexpectedly, and a message says your account is active on another device.
• Unknown logins on WhatsApp Web.
• Receiving messages from friends about unusual or suspicious texts from your account.

If any of these are happening, it’s time to act quickly.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Log Out from Hacked WhatsApp on Android and iOS

1. Log Out from WhatsApp Web Sessions

One of the easiest ways hackers access your WhatsApp account is through WhatsApp Web. To log out of every active session, follow these steps:

For Android and iOS:

1. Open WhatsApp on your phone.
2. Tap on the three vertical dots (Android) or the Settings icon (iOS) in the top right corner.
3. Select Linked Devices.
4. Here, you will see all the devices connected to your WhatsApp account. To end any open sessions, tap Log out from all devices.

This action will immediately stop unauthorized access through WhatsApp Web.

2. Deactivate WhatsApp on Your Phone

If you can still access your WhatsApp account, follow these steps to deactivate it temporarily.

For Android and iOS:

1. Uninstall WhatsApp from your phone. This will log you out, but don't worry—you can reinstall it later.
2. Notify WhatsApp support by sending an email to support@whatsapp.com with the subject line Lost/Stolen: Please deactivate my account. Include your phone number in international format (e.g., +1 234 567 8900).

Deactivating your account prevents the hacker from accessing your chats and data until you are ready to reactivate it.

3. Use Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)

Two-factor authentication (2FA) increases security even more. Enabling this feature will require anyone trying to log into your WhatsApp account to provide a six-digit PIN.

Here’s how to enable 2FA on both Android and iOS:

1. Open WhatsApp and go to Settings.
2. Tap Account.
3. Select Two-step verification.
4. Tap Enable and set your six-digit PIN.
5. Add an email address as a recovery option.

Even if a hacker knows your phone number, they won’t be able to log into your account without the 2FA PIN.

4. Change Your Phone Number (Optional)

If you want to ensure complete security after logging out, you can change your WhatsApp phone number. This way, any hacker who might have access to your old number won't be able to re-enter your account.

For Android and iOS:

1. Open WhatsApp and go to Settings.
2. Select Account.
3. Tap Change Number.
4. Type in both your phone number from now on.
5. WhatsApp will send a verification code to your new number. Once verified, your account will switch to the new number.

5. Log Back In and Restore Data

After securing your account, you can reinstall WhatsApp and log back in with your phone number. If you had a backup, WhatsApp will offer you the option to restore your chat history.

1. Download WhatsApp from the Google Play Store (Android) or App Store (iOS).
2. Start the application and input your mobile number.
3. WhatsApp will send you a verification code. Once entered, you’ll be logged back in.
4. If prompted, restore your chat history from your backup.

Additional Tips to Secure Your WhatsApp Account

Once you’ve logged out of a hacked WhatsApp account, you should take further steps to secure it against future attacks:

• Update WhatsApp regularly: Always keep your app updated to the latest version to benefit from the newest security patches.
• Avoid public Wi-Fi: Hackers can easily intercept data on unsecured public networks.
• Do not share verification codes: Never share your WhatsApp verification code with anyone, even if they seem trustworthy.
• Review privacy settings: Go to Settings > Account > Privacy and adjust your settings to limit who can see your profile, status, and last seen.

Conclusion

Being hacked on WhatsApp can be a distressing experience, but knowing how to log out from compromised sessions on both Android and iOS can save your personal data from further misuse.

Always ensure that you follow up with security measures such as enabling two-factor authentication and reviewing your privacy settings to prevent future attacks. 

By taking these steps, you can regain control of your WhatsApp account and keep it secure moving forward.

Read more on: How To Update Google Chrome In Ubuntu Using Terminal

How to Check If Your WhatsApp Is Hacked: A Complete Guide

If you’re concerned about the security of your account, this guide will help you identify whether your WhatsApp has been hacked and what steps to take to protect it.

Signs That Your WhatsApp Might Be Hacked

Here are some red flags that may indicate your WhatsApp account has been compromised:

1. Unauthorized Devices Linked

WhatsApp allows you to link your account to other devices using WhatsApp Web or the desktop app. If someone gains unauthorized access, they could monitor your chats remotely.

How to Check:

• Open WhatsApp on your phone.
• Press the Settings (iPhone) or three-dot menu (Android).
• Go to Linked Devices.
• Review the list of connected devices. If you see any unfamiliar devices, your account might be hacked.

2. Unusual Activity in Chats

If your friends or contacts receive messages from your account that you didn’t send, it’s a major sign that your account has been hacked.

3. Increased Data Usage

Hacked WhatsApp accounts may use more data than usual. Check your mobile data usage to see if WhatsApp is consuming an abnormal amount.

How to Check Data Usage:

• Navigate to Settings > Storage & Data > Network Usage.
• Review WhatsApp’s data consumption.

4. Battery Drains Faster Than Usual

A compromised WhatsApp account may run background processes that drain your phone’s battery quickly.

5. Logout Notifications

If you’re suddenly logged out of WhatsApp without any reason, it could mean someone has logged into your account on another device using your phone number.

Steps to Secure Your WhatsApp Account

Follow these actions right away if you think your WhatsApp account has been compromised:

1. Log Out of All Devices

• Open WhatsApp and navigate to Linked Devices, which can be seen at the right hand corner after taping on the three dotted lines at the homepage.
• Log out from all connected devices.

2. Enable Two-Step Verification

By requiring a PIN to validate your phone number, this function adds an additional degree of protection.

How to Enable Two-Step Verification:

• Choose Settings > Select Account > Two-step Verification > Turn on.

• After selecting Turn on, enter a six-digit PIN.

3. Monitor Suspicious Login Attempts

WhatsApp sends an SMS when someone tries to register your number on another device. If you receive such a message without initiating it, do not share the verification code.

4. Reinstall WhatsApp

Uninstall and reinstall the app to ensure no spyware or unauthorized software is attached to it.

5. Contact WhatsApp Support

If you cannot secure your account, email WhatsApp support at support@whatsapp.com. Mention your phone number in the format: +[Country Code][Phone Number].

How to Prevent Future Hacks

• Avoid Public Wi-Fi: • Steer clear of public Wi-Fi since unprotected networks allow hackers to intercept data.
• Use Strong Passwords: Create a unique and strong password for your phone lock and apps.
• Don’t Share Verification Codes: Never share your verification code with anyone, even if they claim to be from WhatsApp.
• Keep Apps Updated: Regular updates often include security patches.
• Install Antivirus Software: Protect your phone from malicious software.

Conclusion

Staying vigilant is key to ensuring your WhatsApp account remains secure. Regularly check for unauthorized devices and enable two-step verification for added protection. If you notice any signs of hacking, act immediately to secure your account.

FAQs

Q: Can someone hack WhatsApp without my phone?

A: Definitely, provided they have access to your associated devices or verification code.

Q: How often should I check for linked devices?

A: It’s good practice to check periodically, especially if you use WhatsApp Web frequently.

By following these steps, you can enjoy a safe and secure messaging experience on WhatsApp.Top of Form