WhatsApp is a popular messaging app used worldwide. Many people make common mistakes while using WhatsApp daily. These mistakes can lead to privacy issues and security risks.
Some mistakes can even expose personal data to strangers. Here, I will explain mistakes to avoid on WhatsApp and how to fix them. Follow these tips to stay safe.
also read: How to Use Meta AI on WhatsApp for a Better Experience
Letting Anyone Add You to Groups
WhatsApp groups help people stay connected with family and friends. But strangers can add you to groups without permission. These groups can contain spam, fake messages, or even scams. It is important to control who can add you to a group.
How to fix this mistake:
- Open WhatsApp and go to Settings > Privacy.
- Select the Groups option to manage group settings.
- Choose My Contacts or My Contacts Except… for better control.
This setting prevents unknown people from adding you to random groups.
Responding to Unknown Numbers
Many scams and phishing attacks start with unknown numbers. Scammers pretend to be real people to steal your information. Responding to these numbers can put you at risk. It is better to ignore such messages and avoid clicking on unknown links.
How to fix this mistake:
- Delete messages from unknown numbers without replying.
- Block numbers if they send repeated messages.
- Never click on unknown links as they may be harmful.
Ignoring unknown messages keeps your personal data safe.
Forwarding Fake or Unverified Messages
Many users forward messages without checking their authenticity. Fake news and scam messages can mislead people. Some of these messages contain harmful links or incorrect information. Before forwarding, always verify the message source.
How to fix this mistake:
- Check facts before forwarding any message.
- Avoid sharing messages from unknown sources.
- Confirm with the sender before forwarding important texts.
Forwarding only verified messages helps prevent misinformation.
Making Profile Information Public
WhatsApp allows users to display profile pictures and status updates. Keeping these public can be risky. Strangers can misuse your photos or personal information. Limiting profile visibility helps protect privacy.
How to fix this mistake:
- Open Settings > Privacy to manage profile visibility.
- Choose My Contacts or Nobody for profile pictures.
- Restrict Last Seen, Status, and About to trusted people.
Keeping profile details private ensures better security.
Not Turning Off Media Auto-Saving
WhatsApp automatically saves all received media. This can quickly fill up phone storage. Some images or videos might contain harmful files. It is important to turn off auto-saving to avoid unnecessary downloads.
How to fix this mistake:
- Open Settings > Storage and Data in WhatsApp.
- Disable auto-download under Media Auto-Download.
- Check if media still saves after changing settings.
Turning off auto-saving helps manage phone storage effectively.
Not Silencing Unknown Calls
Spam and scam calls on WhatsApp are increasing. Answering unknown calls can be dangerous. Some calls may even be phishing attempts. Silencing unknown calls is a good way to avoid scams.
How to fix this mistake:
- Open Settings > Privacy > Calls in WhatsApp.
- Enable Silence Unknown Callers option.
- Be cautious while answering calls from unknown contacts.
This feature helps prevent unnecessary and risky calls.
Not Enabling Backups
Many users do not back up their WhatsApp chats. Losing chats due to phone issues can be frustrating. Backing up chats ensures important messages are not lost. It is also important to encrypt backups for better security.
How to fix this mistake:
- Go to Settings > Chats > Chat Backup.
- Select End-to-End Encrypted Backup option.
- Create a password or encryption key for backup.
Encrypted backups keep your chats safe and secure.
Not Adding Extra Security Layers
Hackers can easily access WhatsApp accounts without extra security. Enabling two-step verification adds another layer of protection. It prevents unauthorized access even if someone steals your password.
How to fix this mistake:
- Open Settings > Privacy > Account in WhatsApp.
- Tap on Two-Step Verification and turn it on.
- Set a PIN code for better account security.
Adding extra security makes your WhatsApp account safer.
Not Logging Out from Other Devices ( Bonus 1)
WhatsApp Web allows users to access chats from a computer. However, many people forget to log out after using it. This can be risky if someone else gets access to your chats. Logging out from unused devices is important.
How to fix this mistake:
- Open WhatsApp Web and check active devices.
- If you see an unknown device, log out immediately.
- Regularly check and remove old or unused sessions.
Logging out ensures your chats remain private.
Not Updating WhatsApp Regularly (Bonus 2)
Many people do not update WhatsApp regularly. Older versions may have security flaws. Updates fix bugs and improve security. Using the latest version ensures better protection.
How to fix this mistake:
- Check for updates in the Google Play Store or App Store.
- Enable automatic updates to keep WhatsApp up to date.
- Always install the latest version for security improvements.
Regular updates keep WhatsApp safe and functional.
As We Conclude
These Were the Mistakes to avoid people usually perform using WhatsApp. These mistakes can affect privacy, security, and user experience.
Avoiding common mistakes like responding to unknown numbers, forwarding fake messages, and not enabling backups is important. Also, always update WhatsApp and log out from other devices. Following these tips will help you enjoy a safe and secure WhatsApp experience.
