PEOPLE share some very private information over text messages so it’s concerning to know a simple loophole can reveal them to strangers.
If you use WhatsApp to chat on your iPhone or Android device you should be aware of accidental account takeovers.
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This involves a stranger receiving messages intended for you.
They could even reply as you on purpose or by accident, leaving the recipient none the wiser.
This can happen if you change your phone number but don’t delete the WhatsApp account you have linked to it.
Carrier networks play a role in this mistake when they recycle old phone numbers and give them to new users.
According to The Register, this happened to one of its readers who was left deeply concerned.
WhatsApp has acknowledged the rare but worrying issue.
A WhatsApp spokesperson told the outlet: “We take many steps to prevent people receiving unwanted messages, including expiring accounts after a period of sustained inactivity.
“If for some reason you no longer want to use WhatsApp tied to a particular phone number, then the best thing to do is transfer it to a new phone number or delete the account within the app.”
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The app advises using two-step verification to try and stop others from using your account.
Red flags to watch out for include your friend’s profile picture suddenly changing to someone else or receiving an odd message from them.
Make sure to reach out to your contacts via different means if you think they’ve changed their number and their old WhatsApp is no longer theirs.
