My WhatsApp was hacked from a Kannur device and the hacker messaged my contacts asking for money. What do I do?
RA Asked by Rahul Saxena from India
Quick Answer
Immediately log out of all devices via WhatsApp Web settings and enable two-step verification with a new PIN.
Detailed Legal Analysis
Immediately log out of all devices via WhatsApp Web settings and enable two-step verification with a new PIN. File an FIR at the cyber crime police station in Kannur under Section 66C IT Act, 2000 (identity theft) and Section 318(4) BNS, 2023 for cheating.
Inform your contacts about the compromise through another channel to prevent further fraud. Report the incident on the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal and to WhatsApp support.
Preserve the device logs and suspicious login alerts as electronic evidence under Section 63B BSA, 2023. If funds were transferred, request the bank to freeze the beneficiary account.
If police do not act, approach Kerala High Court under Article 226. Check Kerala Rent Control Act 1963 for state-level cyber fraud response protocols.
Legal Provisions Referenced
Verify the current statutory text at India Code (the official repository of Indian legislation) or the Legislative Department. This answer is general legal information, not advice on your specific matter.
Disclaimer: AI-generated for educational purposes only. Does not constitute legal advice. Consult a qualified practitioner.