Stay safe, Community Since our community relies so heavily on WhatsApp to coordinate everything from CCTV projects to fault reporting, it’s also our biggest vulnerability.
If one of our accounts gets "hacked," the scammer can use it to spread fake news or target our neighbors. Don't spectate, participate in keeping our digital street-watch secure!
Follow these 5 quick steps to lock down your WhatsApp right now:
1. The Must-Have: Two-Step Verification (2FA) 🛡️
This is your "security gate" for WhatsApp. Even if someone gets your SIM card, they can’t log in without your secret PIN.
- Action: Go to Settings > Account > Two-Step Verification > Turn On.
- Note: Link your email so you don’t get locked out if you forget your PIN!
2. Lock Your App (Fingerprint/Face ID) ☝️
If your phone is ever snatched or "fished" through a window while unlocked, this keeps your chats private.
- Action: Go to Settings > Privacy > App Lock and enable it.
3. Stop Random Group Additions 🚫
Tired of being added to random "Forex" or "Gift" groups? You can stop it.
- Action: Go to Settings > Privacy > Groups and select "My Contacts." * Now, only people you actually know can add you to a group.
4. Silence Unknown Callers 🔇
Scammers often use "missed calls" from overseas numbers to see if your line is active.
- Action: Go to Settings > Privacy > Calls and toggle on "Silence Unknown Callers."
5. Spot the Scams: "The Verification Code" 🚩
NEVER share a 6-digit verification code with anyone—not even if they claim to be a group admin, a Councillor, or a security company.
- Rule of Thumb: If a "friend" asks for a code because they are "locked out," call them on a normal voice call first. Their account has likely been hacked.
Why this matters for Unity in Community
As we build our Community network and prepare for the 2027 elections, share information our communication must be airtight. A secure group is a strong group.
Pro Tip: If you see suspicious links or weird behavior from a neighbor's account in the group, alert the Admins immediately so we can remove the profile until it's secured.