WhatsApp lets you use your account on up to four other devices, like a laptop with WhatsApp Web, or a tablet. That is handy, but it also means someone who had your phone for one minute could scan a QR code and read your chats from their own computer. Checking takes ten seconds.

See every linked device

  • Android: open WhatsApp, tap the three dots (More options) → Linked devices.
  • iPhone: open WhatsApp → Settings → Linked devices.

You will see each device, its type (browser, Windows, Mac and so on) and when it was last active.

Log out a device you do not recognise

  1. In Linked devices, tap the device.
  2. Tap Log out and confirm.

Then turn on two-step verification and check your phone’s security, because someone may have had access to it. See turn on WhatsApp two-step verification.

Signs someone may be reading your chats

  • A device in Linked devices you did not add.
  • Messages marked as read that you have not opened.
  • Messages sent from your account that you did not write.

Stay safe with WhatsApp Web

  • Log out on shared or public computers when you finish: Menu → Log out.
  • Lock your phone. Linking a new device requires your unlocked phone or a code from it.
  • Never scan a QR code someone sends you “to verify your account”. Scanning a WhatsApp QR code links their device to your account.
  • Never share a linking code. WhatsApp also lets you link a device with a code instead of a QR code; treat that code like a password.
Different problem? If someone has taken over your whole account (you are logged out on your own phone), that is a hijack, not a linked device. See WhatsApp account hacked.

How to set up linked devices properly: how to use WhatsApp on your computer.

This guide was checked in October 2026. Menus and services change, so if something looks different on your phone, check with your provider.

Common questions

How many devices can be linked to my WhatsApp?

WhatsApp lets you link up to four devices to your main phone at a time.

WhatsApp shows linked devices in the Linked devices list on your phone. Check it regularly, especially if your phone has been out of your hands.

Does logging out a linked device delete my chats?

No. It only removes access from that device. Your chats stay on your phone.

Do linked devices stay logged in forever?

No. WhatsApp logs out linked devices if your main phone is not used for over 14 days.

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