Communication apps like WhatsApp are a popular choice for personal chats, business communication, and even international calls. But with great popularity comes great responsibility, especially from a security point of view. So, is WhatsApp safe to use? Can WhatsApp be tracked by someone? Let's dive into its security features and potential risks in this WhatsApp review.
WhatsApp Security: Key Facts
WhatsApp is one of the most widely used messaging apps globally, with over two billion active users. Owned by Meta (formerly Facebook), WhatsApp offers text messaging, voice and video calls, file sharing, and group chats. WhatsApp also incorporates several security measures, such as end-to-end encryption (E2EE), two-step verification, and encrypted backups. However, with its massive user base, concerns about privacy, data security, and potential vulnerabilities have become more prominent.
So, is WhatsApp safe from hackers? Let's explore the facts:
WhatsApp uses end-to-end encryption (E2EE) for personal chats and calls, meaning only the sender and recipient can read messages. However, decryption keys are created on their servers and transmitted through the net, making them vulnerable.
It offers two-step verification to protect user accounts from unauthorized access.
Unencrypted backups which are copies of data that are stored separately from the original source to protect against loss, corruption, or accidental deletion. Storing backups in the cloud without proper encryption can pose significant security risks. If the data is unencrypted, it allows unauthorized access, breaches, or leaks.
Scams, phishing attempts, and malware are common risks associated with WhatsApp. Users are tricked into giving away personal or financial information, clicking on links or downloading apps that infect their devices with harmful software (malware).
WhatsApp has been exploited in cyberattacks, including the Pegasus spyware attack.
The number of WhatsApp security issues increased by 200 percent in 2021 alone.
How Does WhatsApp Work? Security Perspective
WhatsApp is an instant messaging platform that allows users to exchange messages, images, videos, voice notes, and documents. While its encryption model secures message contents, WhatsApp’s approach to security extends beyond E2EE.
Key Security Mechanisms in WhatsApp
1. Message Encryption: WhatsApp uses the Signal Protocol to encrypt messages and calls, but the encryption keys are generated on WhatsApp’s servers. This means that, while messages are end-to-end encrypted, the centralization of key generation could introduce potential vulnerabilities. This has raised concerns about a possible WhatsApp security breach in the future.
2. Device Authentication: WhatsApp requires phone number verification for account registration. Users can also enable two-step verification for added protection.
3. Cloud Backup Vulnerability: While messages in transit are encrypted, backups stored on Google Drive or iCloud are not encrypted by default, making them susceptible to breaches if proper security settings are not enabled. This represents a potential WhatsApp data breach risk.
4. Data Collection: A common question is, does WhatsApp use your phone number, and can it read your messages? WhatsApp does not access message contents, but it does collect metadata, including:
Phone numbers and contacts
Photos and files
Device details (IP address, OS, and device model)
Frequency of app usage and interactions
Location data (if permission is granted)
5. Business Communications: WhatsApp allows businesses to communicate with customers through WhatsApp Business accounts, but these conversations may not be end-to-end encrypted, raising concerns about data privacy.
Is WhatsApp End-to-End Encrypted?
Is WhatsApp really encrypted? Yes, WhatsApp employs end-to-end encryption (E2EE) by default, ensuring that messages and calls remain private. This means that only the sender and recipient can read messages, WhatsApp cannot access them. That said, keep in mind that your decryption keys are created on their servers and transmitted through the net.
How Strong Is WhatsApp Encryption?
WhatsApp end to end encryption is powered by the Signal Protocol. While the encryption is strong, the fact that it creates your decryption keys, it's like they have the keys to your house (your messages). Here’s how it works:
Every message has a unique encryption key, but these decryption keys are generated on WhatsApp’s servers and transmitted.
While this adds security, it also means that if WhatsApp is hacked, attackers could potentially access these decryption keys.
Calls, images, videos, and voice messages are also protected by end-to-end encryption, but the risk remains if the keys are compromised.
Potential Weaknesses of WhatsApp Encryption
If Whatsapp is hacked, messages can be exploited. One eye opening case occurred in 2024. Safeonweb, an initiative by the Belgian Cyber Security Centre, uncovered that the personal details of 3.2 million Belgian WhatsApp users were being illegally sold on a dark web forum.
The organization warned that the exposure of this data could put users at risk of various cybersecurity threats.
In addition, there are loopholes you have to watch out for:
Compromised Devices: If a phone is infected with malware or spyware, hackers may still access messages before encryption is applied.
Unencrypted Backups: If cloud backups are not encrypted, attackers or law enforcement agencies with appropriate warrants can access them.
Metadata Exposure: Although message contents are encrypted, WhatsApp still collects metadata, which can reveal communication patterns and user behavior if breached. Meta can also intercept this data to run ads.
What Are The Dangers of Using WhatsApp? Data Privacy Concerns
For casual chatting with friends and family, WhatsApp is a great tool.
But for confidential work discussions, WhatsApp privacy concerns persist. The app has faced criticism for its data-sharing policies, particularly after its controversial 2021 Privacy Policy update, which raised alarms about sharing data with Meta.
1. Data Sharing with Meta (Facebook)
Although WhatsApp claims it cannot read messages, it might share user data with Meta for advertising and analytics purposes. This data might include:
Phone numbers
Device information (IP address, OS version, and location, if enabled)
Transaction data from WhatsApp Pay
Interaction metadata, including whom users message and when
While WhatsApp insists that Meta does not have access to message contents, critics argue that metadata collection still poses a significant privacy risk.
2. Spyware & Cyber Attacks
WhatsApp has been a target for cyberattacks, including the notorious Pegasus spyware. Pegasus, developed by NSO Group, exploited vulnerabilities in WhatsApp to infect users’ devices and extract data, including:
Private messages
Location tracking
Microphone and camera access
Although WhatsApp has since patched the vulnerability, the incident demonstrated how spyware can be used to compromise security.
3. Phishing, Scams & Fake Messages
The Federal Trade Commission reports that fake online job scams made up more than 40 percent of all scam complaints in 2024. These scams typically begin with a WhatsApp or text message inviting the victim to perform tasks related to “app optimization” or “product boosting.” To help avoid falling victim to these schemes, the FTC recommends the following three tips:
Ignore random job messages on WhatsApp – Real employers don’t recruit through unexpected texts.
Never pay to get paid – Legitimate jobs never ask for money upfront.
Don’t fall for paid likes – No real company pays for ratings or online engagement.
WhatsApp continues to be notoriously used by cybercriminals for similar scams, including:
Phishing attacks are where users receive fraudulent links designed to steal personal data.
Fake business accounts, impersonating legitimate companies to scam customers.
Malicious file attachments, which, when opened, install malware.
Investment fraud schemes, where scammers promise high returns through fake investment opportunities.
4. Group Chat Privacy Risks
Phone numbers of participants in public or large group chats are visible to all members, potentially exposing users to unwanted messages or spam.
If users are added to a group by someone they do not know, they may be vulnerable to phishing attempts.
Is WhatsApp Secure? Bottom Line
WhatsApp is a secure messaging app that fits daily casual chatting with family and friends. Though encrypted, being centralized makes it vulnerable. So, for sensitive discussions, a more private and secure alternative is recommended, while privacy concerns related to data collection, cloud backups, and association with Meta, continue to raise red flags.
How to Enhance Your WhatsApp Security
To use WhatsApp safely, consider the following best practices:
Enable Two-Step Verification: This adds an extra layer of protection against unauthorized access.
Turn on End-to-End Encrypted Backups: Prevent third-party access to cloud-stored messages.
Avoid Clicking on Unknown Links: Phishing scams are common on WhatsApp.
Limit Group Privacy Settings: Adjust settings to prevent strangers from adding you to groups.
Regularly Update the App: Security updates fix known vulnerabilities.
Use Alternative Secure Messaging Apps: If privacy is a top priority, consider p2p conferencing apps like extrasafe.chat that is available for free without registration, meaning, leaving no data to compromise.
Final Verdict
WhatsApp is generally secure but not the best option for privacy-conscious users due to Meta’s data collection policies. If you prioritize privacy, extrasafe.chat is the right choice. Here are some scenarios where using EXTRA SAFE is highly recommended:
1. Remote Team Leaders & Executives
Confidential meetings on company strategies, expansion plans, or upcoming product launches. Sharing sensitive HR matters, such as employee performance, salaries, or restructuring plans.
2. Crypto Holders & Traders
Sending, receiving wallet addresses, and discussing private investment strategies or high-value transactions.
3. Business Partners & Entrepreneurs
Negotiating contracts, mergers, acquisitions, or sharing proprietary business ideas
For security tips and privacy trends, follow EXTRA SAFE on X, LinkedIn, and YouTube.
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