Use WhatsApp on Two Phones with One Number: Linked Devices, Limits and Safety

Key takeaways

• WhatsApp supports linked devices, and a second phone in companion mode where available.
• Link devices through Settings, then Linked devices, using a QR code from the main phone.
• Features and limits vary, so check WhatsApp's help centre.
• Never share the six-digit code or scan QR codes sent to you.

The short answer

For years, a WhatsApp number could be active on only one phone at a time. That has changed. WhatsApp now lets you link additional devices to your account, and it has added the option to use the same account on a second phone in companion mode. Features roll out in stages and differ by phone, app version and country, so check the steps on your own device and WhatsApp's help pages. Your phone number is still the identity of the account, and it cannot be used as two separate accounts.

Options, from most to least common

See WhatsApp's official help centre for the current steps and limits.

How linking works, step by step

1. On the main phone, open WhatsApp, go to Settings, then Linked devices, then Link a device.
2. On the new device, choose to link to an existing account. A QR code appears.
3. Scan the code with the main phone and confirm.
4. Chats sync to the new device. Messages remain end-to-end encrypted on each linked device.

Linked devices may be logged out if the primary phone stays offline for a long period, so open WhatsApp on the main phone regularly.

Safety: do this carefully

Linking a device gives it access to your chats. Scammers misuse the feature by tricking people into scanning a QR code or sharing a code, which links the scammer's device to the victim's account.

• Link only your own devices, and never scan a QR code someone sends you.
• Never share the six-digit verification code with anyone, including people who claim to be support.
• Check Settings, then Linked devices, regularly, and log out any you do not recognise.
• Turn on two-step verification in WhatsApp's account settings.
• Avoid unofficial "clone" or "second space" apps and modified versions of WhatsApp. They can steal data or lead to an account ban.

Read more about current scams in WhatsApp traffic challan scams and fake APK malware alerts, and about WhatsApp's advanced chat privacy feature.

Next steps

If you were hit by a fraud message, report it at the national cybercrime portal. To understand these scams as a career, see the Cyber Security course.

Related reading

• WhatsApp Banned on U.S. House Devices | Messaging Security Risks Explained
• What is China's Massistant surveillance tool and how does it extract data from confiscated phones?