Use WhatsApp safely: You have to pay attention to that
The messenger service WhatsApp has become an integral part of everyday life for many people. But there are some risks in using it. We'll show you which simple tricks you can use WhatsApp safely.
How to use WhatsApp safely
With WhatsApp, users can share messages, photos and other files with friends, acquaintances and colleagues for free. However, there are a few things to keep in mind when using the Messenger service. How to protect yourself from viruses and fraudsters.
Update regularly
Like any software, you should always keep WhatsApp up to date. If you use the latest version of the app, you are already protected from the greatest risks. How you find out which version you use and how you update WhatsApp, we have put together in an extra practical tip.
Beware of unknown attachments
Do not open attachments that send unknown channels to you. If you download the files, malicious software can get on your smartphone. In the worst case, fraudsters can also take control of their WhatsApp account. Cases are repeatedly known in which fraudsters gain sensitive data or blackmail their victims in this way. If an attachment seems strange to you, ask the broadcaster before downloading or delete it unopened.
Danger chain letters
Chain letters circulate again and again in WhatsApp. They usually ask the recipient to do something in particular and to forward the message to all contacts. Never follow the instructions in such a chain letter. This is either a hoax, a virus, or a scam that you want to push for transfers. Reputable companies such as WhatsApp themselves will never use a chain letter to contact you. Receive a chain letter, ignore the content, and let the broadcaster know that this is a fake or a virus.
Log out for security
If you use WhatsApp in the web interface on your PC, you should log out there regularly. This way you can better control the activities in your account. A vulnerability was recently found in the web application that allowed hackers to take control of their victims' WhatsApp accounts. Not only could they view and save messages and photos, they could also send the malware to other contacts. In this case the provider advises to reload the web session. This vulnerability has now been closed by WhatsApp.
In the next practical tip you will learn how secure WhatsApp really is.