Deactivate a WhatsApp account: without phone, temporarily
If you lose your cell phone or it is stolen, all your information saved in WhatsApp - including messages, photos, videos, etc. - will fall into the hands of strangers. Keep in mind that SIM card locking is not enough to close your WhatsApp session. Read on to find out how to deactivate your WhatsApp account to fully protect your information.
How to disable your WhatsApp account if your phone is stolen or lost?
If your phone is stolen and you want to disable your WhatsApp account to protect your personal information, follow these steps:
Contact your mobile service provider: Call your mobile service provider immediately and report your phone as stolen. They can deactivate your SIM card and prevent unauthorised usage. If you have your phone's IMEI code, you can also request that the company lock the device itself.
Disable WhatsApp through another device: If you have access to another device with WhatsApp installed, you can disable your account remotely. Follow these steps:
- Install WhatsApp on the new device or borrow a friend's device with WhatsApp installed.
- Insert your SIM card into the new device or verify your phone number on the borrowed device.
- Once you're logged in, go to "Settings" in WhatsApp.
- Select "Account" and then "Change number."
- Enter your stolen phone's number as the old number and your new number as the new number.
- Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the process.
Contact WhatsApp support: If you can't disable your account through another device, you can reach out to WhatsApp support directly to report your stolen phone and request them to disable your account. Visit the WhatsApp support page or send an email to their support team with the subject line "Lost/Stolen: Please deactivate my account."
Remember to provide as much information as possible to verify your identity and ownership of the account. Include your phone number, the date and time of the theft, and any other relevant details.
Additionally, it's essential to take further measures to protect your personal data and prevent misuse:
- Change your passwords: Change your passwords for all your online accounts associated with the stolen phone, such as email, social media, and other apps.
- Enable two-factor authentication: Set up two-factor authentication wherever possible to add an extra layer of security to your accounts.
- Inform your contacts: Let your close friends, family, and colleagues know about the theft, so they can be cautious if they receive any suspicious messages or calls.
Remember to report the theft to your local authorities as well. They may be able to assist you in recovering your phone or taking further action.
How to temporarily disable a WhatsApp account?
Another way to close your WhatsApp session on your old device is temporarily deactivating your account. To do this, email your phone number (including your country code) to the WhatsApp support team.t
Note: Even if your account is disabled, your name will still appear in your contacts' contact list. Your contacts can continue to send you messages that will remain pending for 30 days. If you reactivate your account on another device before this period expires, you will receive the pending messages. Otherwise, they will automatically be deleted.