Cyber Alert: GhostPairing Scam Targets WhatsApp Users
21 Dec 2025 10:21 AM IST21 Dec 2025 10:21 AM IST
A new scam tricks users into pairing their accounts with hackers’ devices, giving them access to private chats, photos, and contacts. Experts urge caution and verification before clicking any suspicious links.
Clicking the link directs users to a fake WhatsApp Web page that silently pairs their account with a hacker’s device. (Photo: X)
Hyderabad: WhatsApp users are being warned about a new scam called “GhostPairing” that could compromise their accounts without any OTPs or SIM swaps. The scam begins when users receive a message claiming, “Hey, I just found your photo,” along with a link.
Clicking the link directs users to a fake WhatsApp Web page that silently pairs their account with a hacker’s device. Once paired, scammers can read private chats, access photos, videos, contacts, send messages pretending to be the user, and even lock the user out of their own account.
Cybersecurity experts advise users to never click unknown links, avoid entering pairing or QR codes on external websites, regularly check WhatsApp’s Linked Devices section, and enable two-step verification for added security.
Authorities and tech experts are urging people to spread awareness, as even a single careless click can compromise the entire WhatsApp account.
( Source : Deccan Chronicle )
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