NCCIA Issues Emergency Protocol for WhatsApp Account Hacking

Karachi:The National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) has issued an emergency protocol to guide users on what to do if their WhatsApp account is hacked.

According to NCCIA officials, if a user loses access to their WhatsApp account or suspects that someone else is using it, they should immediately **re-register the account**. Users are advised to **uninstall WhatsApp and reinstall it** on their mobile phone.

After reinstalling, users should enter their phone number to log in. A **six-digit verification code** will be sent via SMS, which must be entered promptly. Officials explained that once the code is entered, **WhatsApp will automatically log out the hacker’s device**, as the application can only remain active on one mobile phone at a time.

NCCIA further stated that if the hacker has enabled **Two-Step Verification** and the original user does not know the PIN, WhatsApp may ask the user to wait for **seven days**. Users are advised not to panic during this waiting period.

Authorities clarified that once the SMS verification code has been successfully entered, the hacker is already logged out. During the seven-day waiting period, **no one can access the account or read messages**.

Officials added that if an email address was previously linked to the WhatsApp account, users can click on **“Forgot PIN”** and reset their PIN immediately without waiting for seven days.

The NCCIA urged users to remain vigilant and follow these steps promptly to secure their accounts in case of a hacking attempt.