WhatsApp is used by millions of people to chat, share photos and send important messages. Because of this, scammers are finding new ways to misuse the app. One such method is called Ghost Pairing. This scam is dangerous because it happens quietly and many users do not realise they have been affected.
What Is Ghost Pairing?
Ghost Pairing is a trick where scammers connect your WhatsApp account to their own device without you knowing it. They do not break into your account in the usual way. Instead, they fool you into giving them access.
Once the scammer connects their device, they can read your messages and see your photos just like you can on your phone.
How Do Scammers Do This?
The scam often starts with a message that looks normal. You might receive a link saying it contains a photo, video or important information. The message may even appear to come from someone you know.
When you tap on the link, it opens a fake page that looks real. This page may ask you to confirm your account or enter a code. If you do this, your WhatsApp gets linked to the scammer’s device.
The scary part is that your WhatsApp continues to work as usual. You can still chat normally, so you may not notice anything wrong.
Why Is This Scam Serious?
Through Ghost Pairing, scammers can quietly read private chats and download photos. They may use this information to cheat you or trick your friends and family by pretending to be you.
Since there are no clear warning signs, the scam can continue for a long time before you realise something is wrong.
How Can You Protect Yourself?
You can stay safe by being careful. Do not click on unknown or unexpected links, even if they seem to come from people you know. Never share or enter verification codes unless you asked for them.
Check the Linked Devices section in WhatsApp settings from time to time. Remove any device you do not recognise. Turning on two-step verification also helps keep your account safe.
Ghost Pairing shows that online scams are becoming smarter. Staying alert and cautious is the best way to protect your WhatsApp account.
