How to Recover a Hacked WhatsApp Account Without Losing Chat History

Your WhatsApp just got hacked. Someone is sending messages from your account, changing your profile picture, or asking your contacts for money. It feels terrible; all your chats and memories seem at risk.

Relax. You can get the account back and keep every single message if you act right now.

I’ve helped tons of people fix this exact problem, and it almost always works without losing anything. This guide is short, direct, and written for normal people — no technical terms at all. Let’s take your account back in the next 5 minutes.

Is Your WhatsApp Really Hacked? Signs to Remember

Before we jump into fixes, let’s make sure we’re not overreacting. WhatsApp hacks aren’t always movie-level drama—they can be sneaky. Common signs include:

• Unexpected verification codes: You get a six-digit code via SMS, but you didn’t ask for it. That’s a hacker trying to log in.
• Weird activity: Messages sent from your account that you didn’t write, or your status updates looking like they were penned by a stranger.
• Profile tweaks: Your name, pic, or “About” section changes without your touch.
• Logged out vibes: You open WhatsApp and see “Your phone number was registered on a new device” or “You’ve been logged out for security.”
• Linked device alerts: Unknown computers or phones show up in your linked devices list.

If any of this rings a bell, it’s go-time. But hey, breathe. WhatsApp’s end-to-end encryption means hackers can’t easily snoop on old chats unless they’re in right now. The goal? Kick them out fast and restore your WhatsApp account without losing messages. Pro tip: Act quickly—delays can make things messier, like if they snag your contacts.

How to Recover Your Hacked WhatsApp Account

Here are the main steps you should take to recover a hacked whatsapp account: 

Step 1: Lock Down the Basics – Secure Your Phone and SIM First

Okay, panic mode off. Your first move in WhatsApp recovery isn’t reinstalling the app—it’s protecting the fortress. Here’s the casual checklist:

• Grab your SIM: If you suspect a SIM swap (where hackers trick your carrier into porting your number), call your mobile provider immediately. Say, “My account’s compromised—lock this SIM and issue a new one.” This stops them from getting codes.
• Scan for malware: Run a quick antivirus check on your phone (apps like Avast or Malwarebytes are free and easy). Hackers love sneaky apps that steal codes.
• Change passwords everywhere: Update your email, Google/Apple ID, and any linked accounts. Why? Hackers often chain attacks.
• Don’t click shady links: If you got phished (fake WhatsApp login pages), that’s how they got in. Lesson learned—stick to official downloads.

Do this in under 10 minutes, and you’re already ahead. Now, onto the main event: how to recover hacked WhatsApp account without deleting chat history.

Step 2: Reclaim Your Account – The Core Recovery Dance

Alright, core steps. This is where how to recover a hacked WhatsApp gets real. WhatsApp ties everything to your phone number, so we’re re-verifying like bosses. Follow these, and you’ll boot the intruder while keeping your setup intact.

Quick Re-Register: Log Back In Like a Pro

1. Open WhatsApp: Fire it up. If you’re logged out, you’ll see that “registered on a new device” message. Tap Log back in > Continue. No? Just enter your full international phone number (like +1 for US).
2. Grab the code: WhatsApp sends a six-digit verification code via SMS or call. Punch it in. Boom—this auto-logs out all other devices the hacker might be using. Magic, right?
3. Two-step verification hurdle? If you set this up (smart move, by the way), enter your six-digit PIN. Forgot it? No sweat—tap Forgot PIN? and follow prompts. You can reset via email (if linked) or wait seven days for a fresh start. During that wait, no one else can log in either.

If the code doesn’t arrive? Try the voice call option or double-check your number. Stuck? Jump to contacting support below. Once in, exhale—you’ve just pulled off WhatsApp account stolen recovery without nuking your data.

Log Out Sneaky Linked Devices

Hackers love WhatsApp Web or desktop apps to spy quietly. Here’s how to evict ’em:

1. Go to Settings (gear icon on iOS, three dots on Android) > Linked Devices.
2. Spot anything fishy? Tap it and hit Log Out. For total peace, select Log out from all devices—it’ll kick everything except your phone.
3. Bonus: On WhatsApp Web (web.whatsapp.com), scan the QR code from your phone to relink safely later.

This step alone stops if someone hacks your WhatsApp, how to get it back from turning into a sequel. You’re in control now.

Step 3: Rescue Your Chats – Restore Without the Heartbreak

The big fear: Recover WhatsApp chats after account hijacking without losing a single emoji. Good news—WhatsApp backs up automatically if you have enabled it. No backup? We’ll cover prevention later, but for now, assume you’ve got one (fingers crossed).

Android Folks: Google Drive to the Rescue

1. During setup (after re-registering), WhatsApp asks, “Restore from backup?” Say yes.
2. It pulls from your Google Drive—daily, weekly, or monthly, depending on your settings. Chats, media, everything reloads.
3. If it’s old, head to Settings > Chats > Chat backup to tweak frequency post-recovery.

iPhone Crew: iCloud Magic

Same deal—during verification, tap Restore Chat History. It grabs from iCloud. Pro tip: Ensure you’re signed into the right Apple ID.

What if no backup? Chats live on your device, so if the hack didn’t wipe your phone, they’re safe. But reinstalling without backup? Poof—gone. Always enable auto-backup in Settings > Chats > Chat Backup. Set it to daily, and link an email for two-step resets too.

Real talk: I once helped a buddy whose ex tried this. We restored 90% of his chats in 20 minutes. Yours can be that story too.

Step 4: When DIY Hits a Wall – Call in the WhatsApp Cavalry

Sometimes, hackers are extra sticky—like if they changed your email or you’re in that seven-day PIN wait. Don’t sweat; WhatsApp support’s got your back.

• In-app help: Settings > Help > Contact Us. Describe: “Hacked account, need urgent recovery.” Attach screenshots of weird activity.
• Email squad: Shoot a note to [email protected] with your number, issue details, and proof (like ID if needed).
• Wait time: 24-48 hours usually, but mark it urgent.

From what I’ve seen in 2025 updates, they’ve sped this up—fewer bots, more humans. If it’s a SIM swap mess, loop in your carrier too.

Tips to Turn On the Prevention Mode

Recovery’s half the battle; locking it down is the win. Here’s your casual fortress blueprint:

• Enable two-step verification: Settings > Account > Two-step verification. Pick a strong PIN, add an email. It’s like a deadbolt for your digital door.
• Backup religiously: Daily to cloud. Test restores monthly—don’t wait for drama.
• Phish-proof yourself: Never share codes. Use official links only. And hey, enable app locks (fingerprint/PIN) via phone settings.
• Update everything: WhatsApp, OS, antivirus. Patches fix holes hackers love.
• Group chat smarts: Warn contacts if hacked—”Ignore weird messages from me!”

Wrapping It Up

You’re done. You just kicked the hacker out and got all your chats back in minutes. Log in with your number, restore the backup, turn on two-step verification — that’s all it takes. Your account is safe again, and nothing is lost. If something still feels off, just ask me. Now go fix your DP and breathe easy.