{
  "id": 11121007,
  "title": "Your WhatsApp could still be linked to a device you don't use — or own. Here's how to check",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/01/your-whatsapp-could-still-be-linked-to-a-device-you-dont-use-or-own",
  "topic": "tech",
  "section": "Tech",
  "published": "2026-10-01T05:01:17.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Gulf News",
    "slug": "gulf-news",
    "url": "https://gulfnews.com/lifestyle/your-whatsapp-could-still-be-linked-to-a-device-you-dont-use-or-dont-own-heres-how-to-check-1.500694345"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "WhatsApp has a feature that allows your account to function on multiple devices, including computers, tablets and even additional phones. This is designed to be convenient, but it also means old sessions can stay active for a long time. If you have forgotten about these linked devices, they may still be receiving messages from your phone. To check your linked devices, open WhatsApp and go to Settings. From there, select Linked Devices. You will see a list of all devices currently connected to your account. If you notice any unfamiliar devices, you can log them out directly from this list. These linked devices have independent connections, yet each maintains end-to-end encryption for personal messages, media and calls. The concern arises when an unknown device shows up in your list, which may indicate that someone else has linked their device without your knowledge. This could happen if you connected the device in the past and forgot to log out, or if someone else had access to your phone. It could also be a scam. For instance, scammers may trick you into linking a new device through a deceptive link or message, potentially without needing your WhatsApp password. Therefore, it's crucial to regularly review your linked devices and remove any unfamiliar ones. If you suspect you've been scammed, remove the suspicious device and inform your contacts about the potential issue. Additionally, using two-step verification and keeping your WhatsApp updated can add an extra layer of security to your account.",
  "summary": "Think about the laptop you used at your last job, the hotel business-centre computer you used to send a boarding pass, or the old MacBook you sold last year. Any of them could still have your WhatsApp open, receiving every new message the moment your phone does. This isn't a hack in the usual sense. It's how one of WhatsApp's most useful features is designed to work, and most people never check…",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}