Phones & computers

How to stop someone taking over your WhatsApp

Turn on WhatsApp two-step verification in two minutes so nobody can take over your account, even with your SMS code. What to do if you've been hacked.

⏱ Takes about 2 minutes💳 Cost: Free✔ Last checked 12 November 2026

A common trick: someone messages you pretending to be a friend or "WhatsApp support" and asks you to send them a 6-digit code you just received. That code lets them move your WhatsApp to their phone, then they message your contacts asking for money.

Never share a WhatsApp code with anyone, even a friend.

Turn on two-step verification

  1. Open WhatsApp and go to Settings → Account → Two-step verification.
  2. Tap Turn on and choose a 6-digit PIN you'll remember (not your M-PESA PIN or birthday).
  3. Add an email address so you can reset the PIN if you forget it.
  4. Tap Done.

Now, even if someone gets your SMS code, they also need this PIN.

If your WhatsApp has been taken over

  1. Open WhatsApp on your phone and register your number again with the SMS code. This logs the other person out.
  2. If they turned on two-step verification, you may have to wait before you can get back in. Keep trying from your phone.
  3. Tell your contacts (by SMS or another app) that your account was hacked and not to send money.
  4. Email WhatsApp support from Settings → Help to report it.

Tip: Check Settings → Linked devices now and then. Log out any computer or phone you don't recognise.

Steps, fees and websites change from time to time. This guide was last checked on 12 November 2026. Before you pay or submit anything, confirm the details on the official website (WhatsApp Help Center). Never share your PIN or passwords with anyone who calls or texts you.