Are your WhatsApp chats being read by someone else? Steps to check linked devices and make your account more secure

Your entire list of WhatsApp chats could remain accessible on an old laptop, shared computer or an unfamiliar device that is linked to your account. Learn how to check Linked Devices, remove suspicious sessions and protect your private messages, photos and documents using two-step verification, biometric locks and other security measures.

Your WhatsApp account could remain connected to a computer that you had used weeks ago, a shared laptop or another device you no longer remember linking it to. If someone gains access to that session, then they may be able to easily read your conversations without needing to unlock your phone every time or even have access to it.

Even though WhatsApp's end-to-end encryption system protects personal messages and calls, it does not prevent someone from accessing an account through an authorised linked device. Checking which devices have access to your account is hence an important step in order to protect your private conversations, photos and documents.

How to check if someone else has accessTo check the list of devices that are connected, open WhatsApp on your primary phone.

On Android: Tap on the three-dot menu which is there in the top-right corner of your phone and then select Linked devices.

On iPhone: Open the WhatsApp app, go to Settings and then just tap Linked Devices.

The screen will then display all the devices that are currently connected to your account. Go through this list very carefully, specially if you have previously used WhatsApp on a computer that was not yours.

If you find a device that you do not recognise, immediately tap it and select the Log out option to disconnect it.

How can someone link your WhatsApp account?A forgotten login is one way to this this if you had earlier connected your account to a computer and did not log out.

Another risk is if someone gets temporary access to your unlocked phone and registers a new device on that phone. Usually, WhatsApp is linked by scanning a QR code or pairing method with a phone number.

Cybercriminals can also take advantage of this process via various types of scams. Security researchers at Gen Digital have tracked a campaign called GhostPairing that dupes victims into completing WhatsApp's device-linking process. A deceptive phishsing type link may lead to a fake page that prompts the victim to enter a pairing code, unknowingly granting access to the scammer's device.

Other warning signs Messages that you do not remember sending, unfamiliar chats or conversations that have been marked as read unexpectedly can be some major warning signs.

But remember that unusual battery drain, phone overheating or poor call quality do not automatically mean that someone is spying on you through WhatsApp.

How to make your WhatsApp account saferAside from checking your linked devices, there are some security measures that can help reduce the chance of unauthorised access.

Two-step verification: For this, you have to go to settings, then open account, and click on two-step verification. After this just set a 6-digit PIN.

Use biometric protection: Always enable fingerprint or Face ID authentication whichever is available for your WhatsApp, .

Never share verification codes: Do not reveal your WhatsApp verification or pairing codes to anyone.

Avoid clicking on suspicious links: Do not follow any directions to scan a QR code that you do not recognise.

Software updates: Keeping your WhatsApp and phone's OS updated to the latest version is very important to stay safe.