Overview

• Spanish authorities and security experts warn of a variant that hijacks accounts during manipulated video calls by coaxing victims to share their screen and exposing the SMS code.
• WhatsApp’s two-step verification is optional and creates a second barrier with a unique six-digit PIN that is separate from the login code sent by SMS or call.
• To turn it on, open Settings, go to Account, select Two-step verification, activate it, set the PIN, and add a recovery email in case the PIN is forgotten.
• If your account is taken, first ask your carrier to block the line and issue a replacement SIM, then reinstall WhatsApp, enter the SMS code, and provide your PIN if enabled.
• Re-registering your number on your device disconnects other sessions, and users are urged to alert contacts, avoid sharing codes or links, and decline screen-sharing requests.