WhatsApp PIN Protection and SIM Swap Attacks
Protect your WhatsApp account with a PIN to prevent SIM swap attacks on your verification codes.
When you provide a phone number during sign-up, Zipwire sends verification codes via WhatsApp. WhatsApp is more secure than SMS, but only if you have enabled a PIN or second factor on your WhatsApp account—which we strongly advise.
What is a SIM Swap Attack?
A SIM swap attack happens when someone contacts your mobile carrier (often by phone or in person) and convinces them to transfer your phone number to a SIM card the attacker controls. They might claim to have lost their phone, need a replacement SIM, or use social engineering to bypass security questions.
Once the attacker has your phone number on their SIM card, they can:
Receive all SMS messages sent to your number, including verification codes
Access accounts that rely on SMS for two-factor authentication
Intercept calls and messages intended for you
How SIM Swap Affects WhatsApp
If an attacker successfully performs a SIM swap on your number, they can set up WhatsApp on their device using your phone number. Without a PIN enabled, they will be able to:
Receive all future WhatsApp messages sent to your number, including your Zipwire verification codes
Potentially gain unauthorized access to your Zipwire account
However, if you have enabled WhatsApp PIN protection, the attacker would need both the SIM swap and your PIN to access your WhatsApp messages. This adds a crucial second layer of defense.
How to Enable WhatsApp PIN Protection
Enabling a PIN on your WhatsApp account is simple and takes just a minute:
Open WhatsApp on your phone
Go to Settings → Account → Two-step verification
Tap Enable
Enter a 6-digit PIN (you'll be asked to confirm it)
Optionally add an email address for PIN recovery
The PIN is just a memorable 6-digit number that you choose—think of it like a simple password you can easily remember. WhatsApp will only ask for it occasionally, such as when setting up WhatsApp on a new device, so it won't interrupt your daily use.
Once enabled, this PIN prevents someone who has your phone number from accessing your WhatsApp account, even if they perform a SIM swap.
Why This Matters for Zipwire
If someone performs a SIM swap on your number and you don't have WhatsApp PIN protection enabled, they can set up WhatsApp on their device and receive all future messages sent to your number—including your Zipwire verification codes. This could allow them to gain unauthorized access to your account.
By enabling WhatsApp PIN protection, you ensure that even if someone gains control of your phone number through a SIM swap, they still cannot access your WhatsApp messages or your Zipwire verification codes without also knowing your PIN.
Best Practices
Enable WhatsApp PIN protection as soon as possible after setting up your Zipwire account
Use a strong, unique PIN that you don't use elsewhere
Add a recovery email to your WhatsApp account in case you forget your PIN
Be cautious if your mobile carrier contacts you about account changes you didn't request
Monitor your accounts for any suspicious activity
If you suspect your phone number has been compromised, contact your mobile carrier immediately and update your WhatsApp PIN. You should also review your Zipwire account for any unauthorized access.
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