WhatsApp, the world's most popular instant messaging app, facilitates a range of activities from sharing status messages to group chats and calls.

However, its open nature—where anyone in your phone’s contact list can find you—makes it vulnerable to social engineering attacks and hackers. Here are eight crucial precautions to take while using WhatsApp.

1. Not Hiding Your Profile Picture
Make sure you hide your profile photo from people not in your contact list. WhatsApp offers options to hide your profile picture from all users or selected contacts. Go to Settings -> Privacy -> Profile Photo and choose ‘everyone,’ ‘nobody,’ or ‘my contacts.’

2. Sharing/Forwarding Information You're Not Sure Of
Fake news spreads rapidly on WhatsApp. Always double-check the information before sharing it, and rely on credible sources to avoid spreading misinformation.

3. Joining Group Requests from Strangers
Never accept group invitations from unknown people or organizations. Scams, including Bitcoin and trading scams, often occur in WhatsApp groups.

4. Adding People to Groups Without Permission
Respect your contacts' privacy by not adding them to groups without their consent. Always seek permission before adding someone to a group.

5. Participating in 'Lucky/Unlucky' Chain Messages
Avoid engaging with chain messages that promise good luck if forwarded. These messages are not only annoying but also clutter your inbox.

6. Clicking on Links from Unknown Contacts
Be cautious of messages promising free gifts or announcing you as a winner in a contest you didn't enter. Avoid clicking on suspicious links and sharing personal information, whether the sender is a known or unknown contact.

7. Not Enabling Two-Step Verification
Enable two-step verification for your WhatsApp account. This adds an extra layer of security by requiring a code sent via SMS or generated by an app when logging in. Keep your phone's software updated for the latest security patches.

8. Downloading WhatsApp from Third-Party App Stores
Always download WhatsApp from official app stores like Google Play Store for Android or Apple App Store for iPhones. Avoid downloading modded versions of WhatsApp that promise extra features, as they can be unsafe.

By following these guidelines, you can significantly enhance your security and privacy on WhatsApp.

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