WhatsApp confirmed that the situation is rare, but it can happen whenever there is a number change. The practice is known as “recycling numbers”, which occurs when a user changes operator or something like that and get rid of the old number. It is passed on to someone else shortly thereafter. It's something that happens often.
A major concern for technology companies is the security of their users' data. Keeping them safe requires great effort and strategy so that specific particularities are not affected; however, not everything depends on digital platforms. In this case, for example, carriers transfer the number quickly, which may end up harming the account linked to the “abandoned” number.
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With this, the platform spokesperson designated the security measures that users need to follow.
WhatsApp and private conversations
The problem can get even bigger if the messenger account has not been properly deleted. The account that was linked to the number may receive messages, exposing private issues. This meant that the WhatsApp spokesperson, in a statement to The Register, had to speak out:
"We take many steps to prevent people from receiving unwanted messages, including accounts that expire after a period of continuous inactivity."
He claims that the best alternative to not maintaining the link is to delete the messenger account that belongs to the number or transfer the account to the new number. It is also recommended to use two-step confirmation so that messages remain secure.
This may not be one problem which happens frequently, but touches the issue of data privacy, so it is something very important to be addressed. Private or work messages, with their relevance, can end up being shared with other people, even strangers.
By following the proper guidelines, operators could continue to make these changes quickly, as user data will still be safe.
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