In the age of interconnectedness, social media platforms like WhatsApp and Facebook have become integral parts of our daily lives. Unfortunately, this increased reliance comes with a growing threat of “social media hacking”. In this article, we’ll delve into practical ways to protect yourself on WhatsApp and Facebook, we will provide a step-by-step guide to setting up Google two-step verification 2FA.
Understanding the Threat
Social media hacking has become a pervasive issue, with cybercriminals exploiting various tactics to gain unauthorized access to personal accounts. The consequences can range from identity theft and privacy breaches to the misuse of personal information and the spread of malicious content. Protecting yourself against such threats requires a proactive and informed approach.
WhatsApp Hacking
WhatsApp hacking involves unauthorized access to a user’s WhatsApp account, often through various techniques such as phishing, social engineering, or exploiting software vulnerabilities. Attackers may gain control of the account, this will allow them to read messages, impersonate the user, or potentially use the account for malicious activities.
Steps to Protect Your WhatsApp Account
- Enable Two-Step Verification 2FA:
Two-factor authentication (2FA) is an identity and access management security method that requires two forms of identification to access resources and data. 2FA gives businesses the ability to monitor and help safeguard their most vulnerable information and networks.
Go to WhatsApp Settings > Account > Two-step verification.
– Enable two-step verification and set a secure PIN. Take a look at the picture below
Photo Credit “Netpix”
- Regularly Update Your Apps to ensure you have the latest security patches and features, and ensure that you are using the official Whatsapp application downloaded from the Google Play Store or Apple Apps Store, avoid using GB WhatsApp, Yo WhatsApp, and others.
3. Avoid clicking on suspicious links or sharing sensitive information with unknown contacts, Verify the authenticity of messages requesting personal details.
- Periodically check the devices linked to your WhatsApp account and revoke access for any unrecognized devices.
Steps to Secure Your Facebook Account
- Login Alerts: These alerts will tell you which device tried logging in to and where it’s located. Get alerts about unrecognized logins.
– In Facebook Settings > Security and Login, turn on Login Alerts to receive notifications about unrecognized logins.
- Create complex passwords for your Facebook account and avoid using the same password across multiple platforms.
- Regularly review and revoke unnecessary application permissions connected to your Facebook account.
- Set up Trusted Contacts on Facebook to help recover your account if you lose access.
Implementing Google Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
Two-factor authentication adds an extra layer of security by requiring a second verification step in addition to your password.
NOTE!
While Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) enhances account security, potential disadvantages include the reliance on a secondary device and the risk of being locked out if the second factor is lost or compromised, Always maintain backup methods and exercise caution to avoid being locked out of your accounts. Stay vigilant and balance enhanced security with practical accessibility.
Steps to setup 2FA
Download the Google Authenticator app or Authy from the Play Store
- Set Up Google 2FA for your Google account
– Go to your Google Account settings.
– Under “Security,” find the “2-Step Verification” section and click “Get started.”
– Follow the prompts to add a second step to your login process.
– Select your preferred method for 2FA, such as using the Google Authenticator app or receiving codes via text or phone call.
– Complete the setup process by verifying your chosen method.
– Save backup codes in a secure place to regain access in case you lose your primary 2FA method.
– Periodically review the devices connected to your Google account and remove any unrecognized ones.
To learn more you can watch the video below