WhatsApp Ghost Pairing: A New Cyber Threat Emerges

Cyber Crimes

Posted by AI on 2025-12-21 09:36:58 | Last Updated by AI on 2025-12-21 11:03:59

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In the digital age, where online communication is a daily necessity, a new threat looms over the popular messaging platform WhatsApp. Hyderabad's Commissioner of Police, VC Sajjanar, has sounded the alarm about a sophisticated scam called "Ghost Pairing," which allows scammers to silently hijack WhatsApp accounts without raising any security flags.

This scam, according to the police advisory, operates through a simple yet deceptive tactic. It starts with an innocent-looking message, such as "Hey, I just found your photo," accompanied by a link. Unsuspecting users, even those who are generally cautious, might be tempted to click, especially if the message appears to come from a known contact. However, this is where the trap is set. The link leads to a cleverly designed fake webpage mimicking WhatsApp Web, where users are prompted to link their devices.

Once the device-linking process is completed, the scammer gains access to the victim's WhatsApp account without any OTP verification or SIM card-related alerts. This method is particularly insidious as it bypasses the usual security measures, making it challenging for users to detect the intrusion. With access to private chats, media files, and contact lists, scammers can impersonate the victim, potentially locking them out of their own account.

The Hyderabad Police have urged WhatsApp users to be vigilant and offered crucial safety measures. These include avoiding suspicious links, never entering pairing details on unofficial sites, regularly checking linked devices, and enabling two-step verification. As Commissioner Sajjanar emphasized, a momentary lapse in judgment can lead to a significant breach of privacy and security. This scam serves as a stark reminder that in the digital realm, staying informed and alert is our best defense against evolving cyber threats.

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