With cyber fraud cases and account breaches on the rise, more than ever, it has become imperative to maintain social media safety. WhatsApp and Instagram being the top social media platforms, are top targets for hackers. To help keep your accounts secure, here is a checklist of must-do steps.

1. Two-Step Verification

Enable 2SV on both WhatsApp and Instagram. It shall become an added security layer so that even if someone did steal your password or OTP, he would still not be able to sign in without knowing the PIN.

2. Remember Strong Password and Different Password Everywhere

Do not use predictable combinations involving birthdays or simple words. Create very contrasting passwords: uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols. Instagram passwords should never be used for the e-mail or WhatsApp-linked accounts.

3. Watch Out for Phishing Links

Hackers will frequently send fake links that appear genuine. Never click suspicious links passed around in messages, mails, or DMs, even if the sender is a known person.

4. Always Update Your Apps

Make it a habit of updating both WhatsApp and Instagram through their respective app stores. Updates mostly contain security patches that protect your usage of the app against newly found threats.

5. Manage Device Permissions

Look at all the devices logged into your accounts. On WhatsApp, go to Linked Devices; on Instagram, to Login Activity. Remove any device from this list that you do not recognize immediately. 

6. Avoid Public Wi-Fi for Logins

Public Wi-Fi is generally unsafe. Using such a network to login can enable a hacker to steal your credentials. Use mobile data or known private networks instead. 

7. When Dealing with Third-Party Apps, Be Cautious

Try not to give permission to any unknown third-party application or website that promises to enhance Instagram or WhatsApp features themselves. They could be harvesting information from you.Conclusion: Apparently very simple things, such as using strong passwords, setting up Two Factor Authentication, and keeping from phishing scams, can majorly contribute to protecting your Instagram and WhatsApp accounts from cyber-threats.