How to Tell if Your WhatsApp is Being Monitored

WhatsApp is currently one of the most popular apps for staying connected with friends and family (Shutterstock).

WhatsApp has become one of the most widely used applications for connecting with friends and family. As its user base continues to grow, data security has become a major concern for many.

The app places significant emphasis on user privacy and security, incorporating strong features like end-to-end encryption and two-factor authentication. However, even with these protections, vulnerabilities exist that can be exploited to monitor conversations. This might leave you wondering: Is it possible to be monitored on WhatsApp, and how would you know?

If this happens, it may feel as though someone—whether close or unknown—is observing your activity, which could include access to your contacts, location, and even messages sent and received. Below, we discuss various signs that your WhatsApp may be monitored and offer ways to protect yourself.

Methods of Monitoring on WhatsApp

Though WhatsApp is generally regarded as one of the more secure messaging apps, messages can still be accessed through spyware or by hacking your account.

Monitoring Apps

Several monitoring apps are available that allow individuals to spy on your device, including your social media platforms like WhatsApp. To install these, intruders need access to your phone. In some cases, parental control apps may also be used to track your activity, recording chats, passwords, and more.

Malware and Viruses

Hackers can use malware or viruses to infiltrate your phone and access WhatsApp. Simply clicking on a link or downloading a file can unknowingly install malware, compromising your device’s security. These malicious programs monitor WhatsApp chats and can also capture other personal data stored on your device.

WhatsApp Web

The WhatsApp Web feature allows you to access your account through a web browser, but it can also be used as a tool for surveillance. If someone gains temporary access to your phone, they can quickly scan the QR code to open your WhatsApp on their device. Once connected, they can view all your conversations until you notice and disconnect the session.

Restoring Data Backups

Backups of WhatsApp chats stored on cloud services like Google Drive or iCloud can be a target for those seeking access to your messages. By gaining access to your cloud accounts, a spy can restore these backups on another device, giving them the complete history of your conversations.

SIM Card Swapping

This technique, known as SIM card swapping, involves tricking the telecommunications company into transferring your phone number to a new SIM card. Once successful, the intruder can receive SMS verification codes and calls needed to access and authenticate your WhatsApp account on a new device.

MAC Address Spoofing

In this technique, an attacker duplicates your device’s MAC (Media Access Control) address on their own device. By changing their MAC address to match yours, they can install WhatsApp and receive the verification code sent via SMS or call, which then grants them access to your WhatsApp chats and data. This method requires initial access to your network details to retrieve your device’s MAC address.

How to Know if Your WhatsApp is Being Monitored

Now that you're aware of techniques others might use to spy on you through WhatsApp, you may wonder how to determine if your account is being monitored. Here are some ways to check if your WhatsApp activity is being tracked:

Checking WhatsApp Web

To see if someone has accessed your WhatsApp account from another device, follow these steps:

• On iPhone: Go to Settings, then Linked Devices.
• On Android: Tap the three dots icon, then go to Linked Devices.

If no devices are listed, then no one can access your WhatsApp from another device. However, if you see one or more devices that aren’t yours, your WhatsApp account may be under surveillance.

Identifying Signs of Monitoring Through Sureillance Apps

Malicious apps, such as spyware, often consume a large amount of your phone’s processing power, causing noticeable negative effects, such as:

• Overheating: If your phone heats up without a clear reason, it might indicate a background app excessively using the processor.
• High Data Usage: A sudden spike in data usage could be a sign that spyware is using your data in the background.
• Slow Performance: If your phone becomes unusually slow, background spyware or malicious apps could be draining your RAM.
• Battery Drain: If your phone requires frequent recharging without clear cause, spyware might be running in the background.
• Unusual Noise or Alerts: Random vibrations or noises without any notification could mean that a spying app is active on your device.

Checking WhatsApp Account Settings

Regularly check your WhatsApp account settings and contacts to detect any unusual changes:

1. Open WhatsApp and go to Settings.
2. Navigate to Account, then check if all the details are accurate.
3. Return to the main screen, tap on the contacts icon, and ensure no suspicious contacts have been added.

Observing Unusual Behaviors

Surveillance apps may leave other noticeable traces, such as:

• Spam Messages Sent from Your Account: If friends report receiving unusual or spam messages from you, someone may have access to your account.
• Messages from Unknown Senders: Receiving messages or calls from unknown numbers without a clear reason can be a warning sign.

Verifying Installed Apps

Surveillance apps are often hidden from the main screen, so check all installed apps in *Settings* to find any unfamiliar ones that you didn’t download from official sources like the Google Play Store or App Store.

Random WhatsApp Malfunctions

Spyware or unauthorized access may cause WhatsApp to malfunction, such as frequent freezing or random logouts.

Checking for New Contact Information

An intruder might alter your contact information or login details. Regularly review your WhatsApp account for unexpected changes.

Why Might Someone Spy on Your WhatsApp?

There are many reasons someone may want to monitor your WhatsApp, including:

• Personal Data Theft: Fraudsters use hacking and phishing techniques to steal personal information to impersonate you, allowing access to online accounts, financial details, or even government benefits.
• Monitoring Your Activities: Some individuals may want to uncover your secrets or ensure you’re not acting against their wishes.
• Work-Related Information: If you use WhatsApp for business, competitors might try to spy on you to steal valuable information. Similarly, employers may monitor WhatsApp conversations to ensure protocol compliance.

What to Do if You Suspect Monitoring on WhatsApp

If you suspect your WhatsApp activity is being monitored, take immediate steps to secure your account and protect your privacy.ذ

Disconnecting Untrusted Devices

To check if someone is accessing your WhatsApp account via WhatsApp Web, follow these steps:

1. Open the WhatsApp app on your phone and tap on the three dots at the top right corner.
2. Select “Linked Devices.”
3. Identify and remove any untrusted devices.

Update Your Personal Information

Update your password with a highly secure one and change the email linked to your WhatsApp account. If possible, consider changing the phone number associated with your WhatsApp to prevent unauthorized access. Each password should be unique, at least 12 characters long, and contain a combination of letters, numbers, and symbols.

Disable Location Sharing

WhatsApp’s “Live Location” feature shares your location with friends and family. If you’re concerned about someone tracking your location, turn off location services.

To disable location on Android, go to Settings > Privacy > Location Services > find WhatsApp, and set location access to “Deny.”

On iPhone, go to Settings > Privacy & Security > Location Services, locate WhatsApp, and set location access to “Never.”

Enable Two-Step Verification

1. Open the WhatsApp app and go to Settings.
2. Navigate to Account.
3. Tap on Two-Step Verification, then select “Enable” and create a PIN.

Two-factor authentication adds an additional layer of defense, keeping your account secure even if someone gains access to your account details and password.

Use Antivirus Software

Installing trusted antivirus software on your device can help detect and block any malicious activity, including spyware.

Use a VPN (Virtual Private Network)

A VPN secures your internet connection and protects your data by hiding your IP address and encrypting your online traffic. When using a VPN, it becomes much harder for hackers to access your WhatsApp messages.

Delete Suspicious Files and Apps

Regularly scan your phone for any suspicious apps or files, and use the “deep cleaning” feature on your phone if available.

Enable Security Notifications

Turn on security notifications in WhatsApp to receive an alert whenever a new device is linked to your account. You can find this option by navigating to Settings > Account > Security.

How to Avoid Monitoring on WhatsApp

Once your WhatsApp account is secured, it’s essential to take precautions to prevent unauthorized access in the future. Here are some effective steps:

• Don’t Leave Your Phone Unattended: Always keep your phone with you or in a secure place. An unattended phone can be quickly compromised, allowing someone to install surveillance apps.
• Always Lock Your Phone: Use a strong password, PIN, lock pattern, or biometric security (e.g., fingerprint or face recognition) to secure your device.
• Regularly Scan for Spyware: Antivirus software can help you periodically check your device for spyware.
• Keep Your Device and Apps Updated: Updates often include essential security patches that protect against new malware and viruses.
• Be Cautious of Links and Attachments: Avoid clicking links or opening attachments from unknown sources in emails, SMS, or websites, as they may contain malware.
• Stay Informed on Surveillance Techniques: Being aware of the latest surveillance methods helps you recognize suspicious activity and better protect your information.

FAQ on Detecting WhatsApp Monitoring

How can I tell if WhatsApp Web is being monitored?

To detect if someone is using WhatsApp Web to monitor your account, follow the steps in the Linked Devices  section in your WhatsApp settings and check for unrecognized devices.

To Check if Someone Has Access to Your WhatsApp Account on WhatsApp Web

Open WhatsApp on your phone, go to Settings, and select Linked Devices to view a complete list of all active sessions. If you see a session you don’t recognize, you can immediately disconnect it.

Signs of Spyware on Your Phone

Signs that your phone may be infected with spyware include sudden increases in data usage, decreased phone performance, unexpected heating without a clear cause, or unusual activity like apps closing or opening on their own.

What to Do if You Detect Spyware on Your Phone

If you suspect spyware on your phone, first uninstall it, then change all important passwords. Install a trusted antivirus program, and, if necessary, restore your phone to factory settings to remove any trace of surveillance.

How to Protect Your WhatsApp Account from Spying

Enable two-step verification in your WhatsApp account settings for an additional layer of security. Also, be cautious with who you share your phone with, and monitor app permissions to ensure no malicious apps have access to your messages.

Are Cloud Backups of WhatsApp Chats Safe?

Backing up WhatsApp chats can be safe as long as you use trusted cloud services and maintain good security practices, such as strong passwords and two-factor authentication on your cloud account. However, be aware that any online backup could be a potential target for hackers.

How Important is Two-Step Verification for WhatsApp Security?

Two-step verification adds an extra layer of security to your WhatsApp account by requiring a PIN that you set up to register your account on a new device.

Can WhatsApp Messages be Tracked Using a Phone Number?

Tracking WhatsApp messages using only a phone number is not possible. WhatsApp's end-to-end encryption ensures that only the sender and receiver can read the messages, making it impossible for anyone else, including WhatsApp and third parties, to intercept and read message content.

Can the Location of a WhatsApp Message be Tracked?

The location from which a WhatsApp message was sent cannot be tracked. However, WhatsApp includes a location-sharing feature, which requires the sender to share their location with you after sending the message.

While WhatsApp uses end-to-end encryption, it is still possible for your account to be monitored. It is essential to stay vigilant about potential security risks associated with WhatsApp. By practicing good digital hygiene and implementing strong security measures, you can protect yourself from prying eyes and keep your data safe.