WHAT TO DO RIGHT NOW

My WhatsApp account was hacked: what now?

Recover access if you shared a code, see an unknown linked device or find messages you did not send.

First action

Open WhatsApp on your own phone and follow its official sign-in recovery with your number. Do not share another verification code.

If you still have access, review linked devices and sign out any you do not recognise. Enable two-step verification.
If you lost access, use WhatsApp's built-in recovery. If your mobile line has stopped working, also contact your carrier about possible SIM fraud.
Warn contacts through another channel if your account sent requests for money or codes. Never pay someone to unlock it.

The check helps identify takeover signs; account recovery happens inside WhatsApp.