California: It is alarmingly easy for someone—whether a partner, family member, friend, or colleague—to gain secret access to your WhatsApp chats without your knowledge. Utilizing WhatsApp’s “linked devices” feature, unauthorized individuals can link your WhatsApp account to their device, allowing them to read your messages on another phone, desktop, laptop, or iPad.
According to a Forbes report, anyone with access to your unlocked phone or passcode can quickly and discreetly link your account to their device. However, identifying and removing such unauthorized access is straightforward. Follow these steps to ensure your WhatsApp chats remain private:
Step 1: Access Linked Devices
- Open WhatsApp on your phone.
- Navigate to “Settings.”
- Click on “Linked Devices.”
Step 2: Review Linked Devices
- Check the list of linked devices. Ensure that you recognize all the devices listed.
- If you see any devices that you did not link yourself, or if there are any unfamiliar devices, log out from them immediately.
This method applies not only to WhatsApp but to most messaging apps that utilize similar linking methods rather than trusted device architecture.
Additional Security Measures for WhatsApp
- Locked Chats: WhatsApp offers a feature that allows you to protect your most sensitive conversations with a separate passcode, storing them in a distinct folder.
- Regular Checks: WhatsApp advises users to regularly review linked devices to maintain account security. Even though a linked device will be automatically dropped after a month of inactivity, it is prudent to perform regular checks to prevent unauthorized re-linking.
By following these steps and utilizing the available security features, you can ensure that your WhatsApp conversations remain private and secure.
Dear TNT Reader,
At The News Tribe, our mission is to bring you free, independent, and unbiased news and content that keeps you informed and empowered. We are committed to upholding the highest standards of journalism, as we understand that we are a platform for truth.
Apart from independent global news coverage, we also commit our unique focus on the Muslim world. In an age marked by the troubling rise of Islamophobia and widespread misrepresentation of Muslims in Western media, we strive to provide accurate and fair coverage.
But to continue doing so, we need your support. Even a small donation of 1$ can make a big difference. Your contribution will help us maintain the quality of our news and counteract the negative narratives that are so prevalent.
Please consider donating today to ensure we can keep delivering the news that matters. Together, we can make a positive impact on the world, and work towards a more inclusive, informed global society.
Donate Monthly Subscription Annual Subscription
