WhatsApp users should be extra careful about device-linking requests. Scammers are increasingly trying to trick people into linking their WhatsApp account to another device by pretending to offer jobs, prizes, voting opportunities or other attractive offers.
Meta has introduced a warning system that can alert users when a device-linking request appears suspicious.
How does the WhatsApp scam work?
The scam usually begins with a message or phone call.
A fraudster may ask you to visit a website, enter your phone number and then provide a WhatsApp linking code. In another version, they may convince you to scan a QR code.
If you follow the instructions, you could unintentionally link the scammer's device to your WhatsApp account.
Once their device is linked, they may be able to access your WhatsApp account and potentially monitor conversations.
WhatsApp can now warn you
Meta says WhatsApp has introduced device-linking warnings that use behavioural signals to identify potentially suspicious linking attempts.
If WhatsApp detects unusual activity, it can show a warning explaining where the linking request is coming from and alerting you that it could be a scam.
This gives you an opportunity to stop the process before another device gets connected to your account.
Never share your WhatsApp linking code
This is the most important rule.
If someone calls or messages you asking for a WhatsApp verification code or device-linking code, don't share it.
Even if the person claims to be from:
- A bank
- A company offering you a job
- A delivery company
- A government department
- A competition or event organiser
Do not give them your code.
Be careful with QR codes
A QR code may look completely harmless, but scammers can use it to trick you into linking their device to your WhatsApp account.
Don't scan a WhatsApp-related QR code simply because someone sends it to you through a message or asks you to scan it during a phone call.
Only link devices through WhatsApp's own settings when you are deliberately connecting your own computer or another personal device.
Check your linked devices
If you think you may have accidentally linked another device, check your WhatsApp account immediately.
Open:
WhatsApp → Settings → Linked Devices
Review the devices listed there. If you see a computer, browser or phone that you don't recognise, select it and log it out.
This simple check can help you identify suspicious access.
Turn on two-step verification
WhatsApp also recommends enabling two-step verification as an additional layer of account protection.
Go to:
WhatsApp → Settings → Account → Two-step verification
Follow the instructions to create your PIN and add an email address for recovery if available.
Don't share your two-step verification PIN with anyone.
Keep WhatsApp updated
Security features are regularly improved through app updates. WhatsApp has also advised users who may face sophisticated cyberattacks to keep both their apps and devices updated.
So, avoid using outdated versions of WhatsApp and install updates through the official app store.
What if you receive a suspicious message?
Don't panic and don't respond immediately.
Instead:
Stop → Check → Don't share codes → Don't scan unknown QR codes → Block and report the account
WhatsApp has also been introducing additional tools to help users identify suspicious messages and groups, including safety information when an unknown person adds them to a group.
One setting worth checking today
Even if you have never experienced a WhatsApp scam, take a minute to open Linked Devices and check the list.
If every device belongs to you, there is nothing to worry about. But if you find an unfamiliar device, log it out immediately and review your account's security settings.
