The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has issued a set of security recommendations to help WhatsApp users protect their accounts from hacking and cyber threats.
The authority has advised users to enable WhatsApp’s Security Notifications feature. To activate it, users should go to Settings > Account > Security Notifications and turn on the “Show Security Notifications” option. This feature alerts users whenever there is a security-related change to their account.
PTA also recommended linking a secure and active email address to WhatsApp. According to the authority, doing so will make it easier to recover an account in case it is hacked or if users face any account-related emergencies.
The authority further urged users to enable Two-Step Verification, describing it as an essential security feature that helps prevent hackers and cybercriminals from gaining unauthorised access to WhatsApp accounts.
PTA warned users against clicking on suspicious links, responding to unknown messages, or sharing verification codes with anyone. It said even a small lapse in caution could result in cyber fraud, loss of personal data, or financial damage.
The authority emphasised that by taking timely security measures, users can better protect not only their WhatsApp accounts but also their personal information, contacts, and overall digital security.
Earlier, the PTA had issued guidelines to prevent the issuance of illegal SIM cards. Citizens were advised not to obtain free SIMs from public places, and instead acquire new SIMs only from authorised customer service centres or franchises of mobile companies.
The advisory further stressed ensuring that no SIM is registered against a person’s CNIC without their consent. Citizens were warned not to undergo biometric verification for free SIM offers, as it may lead to additional SIMs being issued fraudulently in their name.
PTA also urged the public to immediately block any extra or unused SIMs registered under their name.
Also read: PTA warns citizens against fake calls and SMS scams
