Electronic Security Service advises citizens to enhance security of their WhatsApp accounts

The Electronic Security Service under the Ministry of Digital Development and Transport reports that there have been cases of hijacking of citizens’ WhatsApp accounts.

As a result of the preliminary investigation conducted by the service, it was found that these cases were not related to any difficulties in the network of mobile operators operating in the territory of the Republic of Azerbaijan. To find out the cause of the problem, the service contacted the administrator of the WhatsApp mobile application, Meta Platforms, Inc. The investigation revealed that similar cases have been observed in more than 80 countries. The service has presented the results of the investigation to similar entities in other states within the framework of international cooperation.

In addition, there have been cases of suspicious user accounts blocked by the WhatsApp mobile app. Blocked user accounts are reviewed by WhatsApp within 24 hours and if there are no suspicious cases, the restriction imposed is lifted.

Citizens are advised to activate the 2-step verification feature on the WhatsApp mobile application to enhance the security of their existing accounts. You can access the instructions by following this link.

Also, those who have encountered such situations are requested to report to the Electronic Security Service via the hotline 1654, through the website www.cert.az or by e-mailing report@cert.az.

A joint investigation is currently ongoing with the competent authorities on this matter.