Messenger App Scams Surge: “Ghost Pairing” and “Quishing” Threaten Users

A new wave of sophisticated scams targeting users of popular messaging applications like WhatsApp and telegram is causing concern among security experts. These attacks, relying on social engineering tactics rather of technical vulnerabilities, aim to steal personal data and compromise user accounts. The rise of methods known as “Ghost Pairing” and “quishing” presents a significant risk to millions of individuals.

What is “Ghost Pairing”?

“Ghost Pairing” involves criminals exploiting WhatsApp’s multi-device linking feature to gain unauthorized access to a victim’s account. The attack initiates with a message, frequently enough appearing to originate from a trusted contact, containing a link to a seemingly harmless photo or piece of information. Clicking this link redirects the user to a fake website requesting their phone number.

Behind the scenes, the attackers request an official code from WhatsApp to link a new device.This code is presented on the fraudulent site, prompting the victim to enter it into their actual WhatsApp request. Successfully entering the code unknowingly authorizes the perpetrator’s device, granting them complete access to the user’s messages and data in real-time. This allows for potential espionage or blackmail.

The Rise of “Quishing” Attacks

Simultaneously,a scam known as “Quishing” – a portmanteau of “QR code” and “phishing” – is gaining traction. Victims receive messages purportedly from delivery services like DHL or German Post, claiming a package delivery has failed and requires verification via a QR code. However, scanning the QR code redirects users to malicious websites designed to steal personal information, banking details, or install malware.

Deutsche Post has explicitly stated they do not request sensitive data through QR codes, and legitimate codes at automated parcel stations are exclusively used for authentication within their official app. According to the Anti-phishing Working group, QR code phishing attacks increased by 150% in 2023, demonstrating the growing prevalence of this tactic.

Old Scams Evolving: The “Grandparent Scam 2.0” and Investment Fraud

Alongside these new techniques, older forms of fraud continue to pose a threat. The “Grandparent Scam,” or “Parent Scam”, has evolved into a “Grandparent Scam 2.0,” with fraudsters posing as family

How can I protect myself from ghost pairing and quishing scams on Messenger?

Messenger Scams Unveiled: Ghost Pairing, Quishing, and How to Protect Yourself

Messenger, while a convenient way to connect with friends and family, has regrettably become a breeding ground for increasingly sophisticated scams. Staying informed about the latest tactics is crucial to protecting your personal data and finances. This article dives into prevalent Messenger scams like “ghost pairing,” “quishing,” and provides actionable steps to safeguard yourself.

Understanding Ghost Pairing Scams

Ghost pairing is a relatively new and alarming type of Messenger scam. It involves scammers gaining unauthorized access to your Messenger account – without you directly handing over your password. Thay achieve this by exploiting vulnerabilities in the platform or through sophisticated phishing techniques that mimic legitimate login prompts.

Here’s how it works:

* The Initial Contact: You receive a message, often from a friend whose account has also been compromised, containing a seemingly harmless link or file.

* The Fake Login: Clicking the link redirects you to a fake Messenger login page that looks identical to the real one. Any credentials you enter are promptly captured by the scammer.

* Silent Takeover: The scammer gains access to your account and can then send malicious links to your contacts,perpetuating the cycle. Crucially, you may not receive any notification of a successful login from a new device. This “ghost” access is what gives the scam its name.

* Financial Exploitation: Once inside, scammers can request money, promote fraudulent investment schemes, or steal personal information.

Real-World Example (2025): In late 2025, a surge in ghost pairing attacks targeted users in France and Belgium, resulting in reported financial losses exceeding €500,000. Investigations revealed the scammers were using highly convincing fake login pages hosted on compromised websites.

What is Quishing? The Phishing Evolution

“Quishing” (short for “phishing via speedy messages”) is a form of phishing specifically targeting messaging apps like Messenger. It relies on creating a sense of urgency and trust to trick you into revealing sensitive information.

Key characteristics of quishing scams include:

* Impersonation: Scammers often pose as trusted entities – banks,government agencies,or even your friends and family.

* Urgent Requests: Messages typically demand immediate action,such as verifying account details,clicking a link to resolve a security issue,or sending money urgently.

* Emotional Manipulation: Scammers may exploit your emotions – fear, concern for a loved one, or a sense of obligation – to bypass your critical thinking.

* Malicious Links: These messages almost always contain links to fake websites designed to steal your login credentials,financial information,or install malware.

Spotting a Quishing Attempt:

1. Unexpected Messages: Be wary of unsolicited messages, especially those requesting personal information.
2. grammatical Errors: Scammers often make spelling and grammar mistakes.
3. Suspicious Links: Hover over links (without clicking!) to see the actual URL. If it doesn’t match the legitimate website, it’s a red flag.
4. Verify Independently: If a message claims to be from your bank or another institution, contact them directly through a known phone number or website.Do not use the contact information provided in the message.

Protecting Yourself: A proactive Approach

prevention is the best defense against Messenger scams. Here’s a comprehensive checklist:

* Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): This adds an extra layer of security to your account, requiring a code from your phone along with your password.

* review Active Sessions: Regularly check the “Active Sessions” section in your Messenger settings to identify and remove any unauthorized logins.(As noted in recent user reports from forums like Commentcamarche.net, visibility of online friends can sometimes be affected, but checking active sessions remains crucial).

* Be Skeptical of Links: Never click on links from unknown or suspicious sources. Even links from friends should be treated with caution if they seem out of character.

* Don’t Share Personal Information: Never share your password, security questions, or financial details with anyone online, even if they claim to be from a trusted source.

* Report Suspicious Activity: Report any suspicious messages or accounts to Messenger immediately.

* Keep Your Software Updated: Ensure your operating system, browser, and Messenger app are always up to date with the latest security patches.

* Privacy Settings: Review and adjust your Messenger privacy settings to control who can see your profile and contact you. Limit visibility to friends only.

* Educate Your Contacts: Share this information with your friends and family to help them stay safe online.

What to Do If you’ve Been Scammed

If you suspect you’ve been a victim of a messenger scam:

1. Change Your Password Immediately: Choose a strong, unique password.
2. **Revoke Access to Third-