Did you know a 'secret code' inside your text messages can reveal if someone is reading your texts?
This special code can be checked at any time to detect a type of digital eavesdropping called 'text interception.'
How text interception works
Text interception happens when someone positions themselves in the middle of your conversation without you or your contact knowing.
They intercept messages you send, read them, then allow them to continue to the intended recipient. The same process happens in reverse for messages coming back to you.
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While clever, this hack is difficult to execute and can leave your most private conversations completely exposed to prying eyes.
How to protect yourself
Fortunately, both WhatsApp and Apple's iMessage include a 'secret code' system that lets you easily detect if your texts are being intercepted. The feature operates through a process called 'key verification.'
When you chat with someone, both you and the other person are assigned unique security codes specific to your conversation. These codes ensure your messages are encrypted and aren't being read externally.
Your conversation is only fully secure if both participants have matching codes, sort of like a secret handshake that outsiders can't replicate. However, if your codes don't match, there's a chance someone is spying on your messages.
How to check your WhatsApp security codes
For WhatsApp users, the process is pretty straightforward.
First, open a chat and tap on the contact's name at the top, this will open the contact info screen with their details. Then, tap the 'Encryption' button to reveal a QR code and 60-digit number.
"If you scan the QR code, and the code is indeed the same, a green check mark will appear," WhatsApp explained.
The Meta-owned company added: "Since they match, you can be sure no one is intercepting your messages or calls."
For remote verification, you can share the 60-digit code using a different app through the built-in share button.
"If the codes don't match, it's possible you're scanning the code of a different contact or a different phone number," WhatsApp continued. "If your contact has recently reinstalled WhatsApp, changed phones, or added or removed a paired device, we recommend you refresh the code by sending them a new message and then scanning the code."
How to check your iMessage security codes
Apple iPhone and iPad users have a similar system called Contact Key Verification in the Messages app.
To check this, first ensure you have Wi-Fi or mobile data connection. Next, open Messages, select your conversation thread and then tap the contact's name to access Conversation Details.
Scroll to the bottom and tap 'Verify Contact' (have the other person do the same). Doing so will bring up a code that you can match with the other person.
Compare the generated codes 'in person, via FaceTime, or through another secure call,' Apple noted.
If codes match, tap 'Mark As Verified' to add the verification to their Contact Card. But, if the codes don't match, Apple suggests 'to stop messaging until you can make sure you’re messaging the correct person.'