WhatsApp Tips on Increasing Security for Ukraine Users

Ethan James 02 Mar 2022

In connection with Russia's aggression towards Ukraine, WhatsApp representatives decide to take care of users and publish recommendations on improving security and maintaining privacy on official Twitter. If you're in Ukraine and use WhatsApp to keep in touch with friends and family, here's what you should do.

When sharing photos and images, it is recommended to use the "View Once" feature. If it is activated, after a recipient views a media file, it will be automatically deleted. Text messages have a similar option called "Disappearing Mode." Information in all chats is automatically removed after 24 hours. Both of these functions are needed in case you accidentally lose your phone.

Make sure you have two-factor authentication enabled. This method of protection is now recommended for use in any application. Go to your profile settings to make sure two-step verification is enabled. It reduces the chances of scammers hacking into your account. Also, activate fingerprint lock. Unfortunately, this feature may not be available on older smartphone models.

The app flags messages that have been forwarded to several users to protect you from fake news bots. If necessary, you can also restrict other users' access to your Facebook account. Besides, Meta has set up an operations center staffed with native Ukrainian and Russian speakers to monitor activity on its platforms and respond promptly.

WhatsApp also reminded that chats in the application are protected by end-to-end encryption and therefore cannot be intercepted. However, the use of other security methods will not be superfluous in such a difficult situation. Please check your account settings to ensure your protection is up to par.

What other messengers do you use to keep in touch with your loved ones? It might be worth checking their settings as well.