Sun Dec 28 14:34:18 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a summary of the text and a news article based on it:

Summary:

The Thoothukudi District Police in India have issued a public warning about a new WhatsApp cyber fraud called “WhatsApp Ghostpairing.” This scam involves fraudsters sending a link and a photo from an unknown number, falsely claiming the user’s photo is published on a website. Clicking the link and linking the provided “pairing code” gives the scammers access to the user’s entire WhatsApp account, leading to data theft and potential financial harm. The police advise removing unknown linked devices from WhatsApp settings, avoiding suspicious links, and reporting any such incidents to the Cybercrime Helpline.

News Article:

New “WhatsApp Ghostpairing” Scam Targets Indian Users, Police Warn

Thoothukudi, India – December 28, 2025 – The Thoothukudi District Police have issued a public alert regarding a new and increasingly prevalent WhatsApp cyber fraud scheme dubbed “WhatsApp Ghostpairing.” The sophisticated scam bypasses traditional password and OTP hacking methods, posing a significant threat to users’ personal data and financial security.

According to a police statement released this morning, the “WhatsApp Ghostpairing” scam begins with users receiving a photo and a link via WhatsApp from an unknown number. The message falsely claims that the user’s photo has been published online and urges them to immediately click the link to view it.

Crucially, the linked webpage displays a “pairing code.” Scammers instruct victims to link this code to their WhatsApp account. Doing so unknowingly grants the cybercriminals complete access to the user’s WhatsApp account, including all stored data and messages. This compromised access can then be exploited for further fraud and financial extortion.

“This is a particularly insidious scam because it doesn’t rely on easily recognizable phishing tactics,” explained a police spokesperson. “Users are essentially handing over control of their WhatsApp accounts without realizing the danger.”

To protect themselves from “WhatsApp Ghostpairing,” the police strongly advise the following precautions:

  • Remove Unknown Linked Devices: Regularly check the “Linked Devices” section within WhatsApp settings and remove any unfamiliar or suspicious devices.
  • Avoid Suspicious Links: Do not click on any links received from unknown or unverified numbers.
  • Never Link Unknown Codes: Never link any pairing codes, numbers, text, or QR codes to WhatsApp-linked devices if you haven’t verified their source.

The police urge anyone who suspects they may have fallen victim to this scam to immediately report it to the Cybercrime Helpline at 1930 or via the cybercrime reporting portal.

Authorities are actively investigating the ongoing scam and working to identify and apprehend the perpetrators. In the meantime, public vigilance and adherence to the safety guidelines are crucial in preventing further victimization.

Read More