A recent cyberattack that targets WhatsApp users is called GhostPairing. The "Link a Device" feature of WhatsApp, which is utilized for secondary devices or WhatsApp Web, is abused by hackers to covertly link their own device to your WhatsApp account.
Once connected, they can browse conversations, read messages, and even take over your account all without swiping your password or SIM card.
How does the attack work?
GhostPairing allows hackers to take over WhatsApp accounts by misusing the appâs device-linking feature. By tricking users into approving a hidden linked device, attackers gain full access to the account and can send messages posing as the victimâoften spreading the scam to more contacts.