Bisola David
The Nigerian Communications Commission Security Incident Response Unit has issued a warning to everyone yet to set up their two-factor authentication for Whatsapp stating that the application is increasingly turning into a top target for hackers and con artists.
According to Nairametrics, in its most recent advisory, the NCC-CSIRT urged Nigerian users to utilize the service with caution and encouraged them to use two-factor authentication to protect themselves from hacker account takeover.
Two-factor authentication is an identity and access management security technique that requires two different forms of identification in order to access resources and data, according to the CSIRT.
The NCC-CSIRT explained the requirement for WhatsApp users to enable two-factor authentication:
“Among messaging apps, WhatsApp is one of the most well-known and well-liked. WhatsApp offers a fantastic mobile app, supports voice and video calls, and is completely free to use. Whether you use WhatsApp frequently or only occasionally, it is advised that you configure it with two-factor authentication.
“When this is turned on, your account will be further secured by requiring a unique PIN each time you log in to WhatsApp from a new device.
“Two factor authentication enables organizations or individuals to keep an eye on and assist protect their most sensitive data and networks. Because it stops fraudsters from stealing, deleting, or accessing data.”
The CSIRT noted the following procedures for turning on 2FA for WhatsApp:
Open WhatsApp and select Settings, Account, Two-Step Verification, and Activate.
Select Next, then enter the six-digit PIN you want to use twice to confirm it. Tap Next, then add an email address for added security (this step is optional but it is an extra way to retrieve your account if you forget your Pin)
If you’re worried that your PIN has been hacked or is simple to guess, you can change it by going to settings, selecting Two-Step Verification, selecting Change PIN or Change Email Address, entering a new PIN or email address, and then selecting “next” to make the necessary adjustments.
The NCC established the CSIRT as the telecom industry’s cyber security incident centre to focus on occurrences that may have an impact on telecom users and the general public.
The Federal Government founded ngCERT to lessen the frequency of future computer risk situations by preparing, safeguarding, and securing Nigerian cyberspace to prevent attacks, difficulties, or associated events. The CSIRT also collaborates with ngCERT.