WhatsApp Account Hacking Complaints Surge in Sri Lanka, SLCERT Warns Users Against Sharing Verification Codes

COLOMBO (News 1st) - The Sri Lanka Computer Emergency Readiness Team (SLCERT) has reported a rise in complaints about WhatsApp account hackings. 

Senior Information Security Engineer Charuka Damunupola revealed that around 74 cases have been reported in recent weeks.

In most cases, the hack begins with an online meeting invitation, either from an unknown number or a contact. 

The hackers then ask users for a verification code, which is used to gain access to their accounts.

SLCERT is urging all WhatsApp users not to share their personal verification codes with anyone.

If an account is hacked, users are advised to uninstall and reinstall WhatsApp, then re-register their phone number to regain access.