Whatsapp security breach: Follow these privacy tips to ensure your safety

WhatsApp, which is one of the most popular messaging tools is used by 1.5 billion people monthly and it has touted its high level of security and privacy, with messages on its platform is encrypted end-to-end.

Facebook's WhatsApp has urged users to upgrade to the latest version of its popular messaging app to ensure their privacy is protected after reporting that users might be vulnerable to having malicious spyware installed on phones without their knowledge.

WhatsApp, which is one of the most popular messaging tools is used by 1.5 billion people monthly and it has touted its high level of security and privacy, with messages on its platform is encrypted end-to-end.

However, there have been various instances about the safety of privacy of Whatsapp users so it's all better to take precautions so that your privacy is not compromised.

Here are a few settings you can customise to ensure your safety.

• Control who sees your information

You can choose who can see your last seen, profile photo and status. Go to Settings > Account > Privacy and you will see a bundle of options that lets you choose a range of privacy options.

• Control what you see and with whom you interact

You can block specific contacts from interacting with you via WhatsApp.

• Report to Whatsapp

Whatsapp provides its users with options to report any shortcoming or spam content and it ensures rapid action so that the issue is resolved.

Advanced security options:

• Check Encryption for Individual Conversations

Whatsapp gives you with an option to double check encryption of individual conversations. To verify the encryption, start a conversation with that contact. In the chat window, tap the contact's name, and then tap Encryption.

• Turn On Security Notifications

To turn on security notifications, go to WhatsApp > Settings > Account > Security > Show security notifications. Whenever a new phone or laptop accesses an existing chat, a new security code is generated for both phones and WhatsApp will send you a notification when the security code changes if the feature is enabled.