Khaberni - Cybersecurity experts have warned of a new electronic scam targeting WhatsApp users, allowing hackers to access messages, photos, and sensitive data, and even use the account to deceive others without the user noticing any breach.
This trick is known as the "Ghost Pairing Scam" and exploits the feature of linking a WhatsApp account to other devices, such as computers or additional phones.
A message that seems official.. a perfect trap
The scam starts with a message that appears to be from WhatsApp itself, warning the user that their account is at risk and asking them to secure it. In other cases, the message is sent in the name of a close contact, falsely claiming that a verification code was sent by mistake and requesting its return. What the user does not realize is that this code is actually used to link their account to the scammer's device, granting the latter full access to the account.
Silent and prolonged breach
The danger of this trick lies in that WhatsApp continues to function normally on the user's phone, without logging out, making the breach silent and possibly undetected for a long period. Once the breach is successful, the scammer can read messages, view photos, and send messages in the name of the victim, exploiting the trust of contacts to continue the fraud.
Important warnings.. do not share verification codes
Digital security experts emphasize the necessity of not sharing WhatsApp verification codes with anyone, stressing that the application never asks users to resend these codes. They also advise not to respond to any request claiming the code was sent by mistake, and instead verify directly whether it was sent to the user's number, as reported by "Mirror".
Simple steps to protect the account
Users can check the security of their accounts by reviewing linked devices:
Android phones: Press the three dots at the top of the app then choose "Linked Devices".
iPhones: Go to "Settings" then "Linked Devices".
If an unknown device appears, it is recommended to log out from it or remove it immediately.
Widespread interaction and warnings for families
The warning about this scam has triggered significant interaction on social media platforms, where many expressed their shock at not knowing about this type of fraud, affirming their intention to share the information with family members, especially the elderly who are more vulnerable to falling victim.
One commenter said: "This happened to me before, so I blocked the person immediately", while another wrote: "I received the message indeed, and luckily I ignored it".
