WhatsApp alert over 'ghost pairing' scam that lets hackers into your account

A new scam targeting WhatsApp users could potentially allow hackers to access your most sensitive information. Whilst we're regularly warned about emerging scams and threats to our personal data, most people understand the importance of staying safe online and avoiding suspicious links or downloading unfamiliar programmes onto their devices.

However, scammers and hackers are becoming increasingly sophisticated, making it harder to identify fraudulent text messages or emails unless you're already aware of what to watch for. A recent scam known as the "ghost pairing scam" is currently affecting WhatsApp users, with experts urging people to remain vigilant about any messages they receive through the platform.

A social media user named Caroline highlighted the scam in a TikTok video, warning that falling victim to this "terrifying" trick could enable hackers to remotely access your information.

Detailing how the scam operates, she explained: "You will receive a message that looks like it's from WhatsApp itself. It will look completely legitimate. It will say to you that your account is at risk or that you need to secure your account to make sure it's safe.

"Or, it might look like you're getting a message from somebody you already know in your contact list, and it will say [something like] 'Oops, I've sent you a code by mistake, can you send it back to me?'

"What's actually happening is this: WhatsApp has a feature that lets you link your account to another device like a laptop. If you receive a code and then forward it on as instructed, then effectively you are linking your WhatsApp account to the scammer's device."

Should a fraudster gain access to your WhatsApp account, they can read your messages, view photographs you've shared through the application, and even dispatch messages in your name, potentially deceiving others on your contact list by impersonating you and perpetuating the scam.

The situation becomes more complex as the pairing scam won't remove you from your own WhatsApp account, and the application will continue to "work normally" on your device - meaning you might not realise your account has been compromised.

Fortunately, there are straightforward measures you can implement to avoid falling victim to these scams. The primary rule is to never share a WhatsApp code with anyone.

WhatsApp will never text you requesting a code be returned to them, and if you receive a message from someone in your contacts asking for a code they claim to have sent you, advise them to have the code re-sent to their own number and refrain from sending them anything you have received.

You can verify your linked devices through your settings.

On an Android device, tap the three dots at the top right of the application and choose Linked Devices from the menu. On an iPhone, simply tap the settings icon, then choose Linked Devices.

Any additional devices connected to your WhatsApp account will be displayed here. Should you spot an unfamiliar device, tap on it and choose "log out" or "remove" to instantly disconnect it.

Viewers of Caroline's video expressed gratitude for highlighting the scam.

Numerous people admitted they were completely unaware of its existence, and pledged to warn elderly relatives who might be particularly vulnerable to such fraud.

One viewer commented: "This happened to me before, I blocked the person straight away!"

Another responded: "Thank you once again for the heads up. Shared."

A third wrote: "Oh my word!! I got this message. Thankfully, I've done nothing with it!! Thanks for sharing this information with us."