Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has issued a simplified procedure for mobile users to protect their WhatsApp account against hijacking and secure their mobile handsets. With the increasing number of WhatsApp hijacking cases across the world, the simplified procedure issued by the PTA enables the WhatsApp users a two-step verification to avoid hijacking.
Mobile subscribers/Wh-atsApp users have been advised to follow four steps for verification and protection of WhatsApp account. The process as explained by the PTA consists of four steps including select three dots on upper right corner of WhatsApp, go to WhatsApp settings and click account; click two-step verification; click enable; and enter same six-digit PIN twice and enter email address for future PIN recovery.
The PTA has come up with six tips for the general public to secure their mobile handsets. But it is worth mentioning that such tips were issued several years back in other countries. The PTA has started a campaign to create awareness among the general public about the use of mobile phones and other telecom services.
With the latest development, the PTA issued six tips to secure mobile handset which are given as; (i) lock phone using a "pin/password" to avoid its misuse; (ii) install Apps only from "trusted Apps stores"; (iii) turn-off Bluetooth connection, after the usage; (iv) always encrypt your data on internal and external media; (v) timely installs updates/ patches; (vi) and always use a VPN on public WiFi / un-trusted network.
The telecom experts said that one of the first things suggested is to navigate into device's security settings and enable a pass lock. Pattern unlocks and pins are some of the most secure. If the mobile subscribers want to take it one step further then it is also recommended to change pass code regularly.
They further said that whilst it can often be a nice idea to download and install apps that are not found on the App Store or Google Play Store, these apps tend to be the ones that are less secure.
Bluetooth is best known as the wireless technology that powers hands-free earpieces and connects phone to audio, navigation, and electronics through the Internet of Things (IoT). Tech experts said that as convenient as Bluetooth can be for productivity and comfort, it can also present major security risks. Therefore, it is recommended that Bluetooth may be turned off once used.
Since access to public WiFi is a necessity nowadays, using a VPN to encrypt connections is vital. The thing with public WiFi connections is that mobile users have no way of knowing which networks are really secure. Whatever public WiFi hotspot they are trying to access, a VPN will do its best to encrypt their connections.
The PTA has notified "Data Retention of Internet extended to WiFi-Hotspots Regulations, 2018" aimed at facilitating service providers and its users through proper check and balances.
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