A new WhatsApp scam is spreading across several countries, and it starts with a very simple message:
“Hello! I found your photo. Have a look.”
Cybersecurity experts and police have warned that clicking on such messages can lead to your WhatsApp account being hacked, a scam now known as WhatsApp Ghost Pairing.
WhatsApp is widely used in daily life, which makes it an easy target for scammers. In this scam, users receive a message from an unknown number along with a link. The message creates curiosity and pushes people to click without thinking.
According to police in India, hackers are using a new method instead of sending malware through calls or SMS. This time, they are abusing WhatsApp’s device linking feature to gain access to users’ accounts.
Hyderabad City Police Commissioner VC Sajjanar explained that once a user clicks the link, a fake WhatsApp-looking website opens. The page asks the user to log in using their phone number to “view the photo.” Without any OTP or clear warning, the hacker sends a device pairing request in the background.
When the user unknowingly approves this request, their WhatsApp account gets linked to the hacker’s device. From there, hackers can read messages, download photos and videos, and even message others using the victim’s account.
Telangana Cyber Security Director Shikha Goel warned that hackers can also steal banking details, personal chats, and private media. In many cases, scammers use the hacked account to trick friends and family into sending money.
The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology has also issued an alert, saying hackers are misusing WhatsApp’s pairing feature without extra verification.
Experts advise users to never click on unknown links, even if the sender looks familiar. Users should regularly check Linked Devices in WhatsApp settings and immediately log out of any suspicious device.
For better protection, users are strongly advised to enable two-step verification. If you suspect your account is hacked, stop using it immediately, take screenshots of suspicious messages, change all passwords, and contact your bank if money is involved.
Authorities also warn users never to share OTPs, PINs, CVV numbers, or WhatsApp codes with anyone under any condition.
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