An unfamiliar computer appears in WhatsApp Linked devices

WhatsApp Web and companion devices can keep a messaging session open after a QR-code link. An unfamiliar entry may be an old work computer you forgot, but it could also mean someone briefly accessed your unlocked phone or persuaded you to link through a fake login. Removing it stops that route; it does not undo messages already seen.

Before you start​

Use your primary phone and make sure it is physically under your control. Preserve evidence if you need it for an account or workplace incident.

Do it step by step​

1. Open WhatsApp Settings or the menu, then Linked devices. Read every entry and its last-active details where shown.
2. Identify your current browser and any legitimate desktop client before acting. If an entry is unknown, select it and choose Log out; remove other old entries too.
3. Check recent conversations for messages you did not send and contacts who received unusual requests. Warn them through a second channel if your account was used for fraud.
4. Enable or review WhatsApp two-step verification and strengthen the phone's screen lock. Do not scan a QR code supplied by someone claiming to be support.
5. Return to Linked devices after the change and again later. If new unknown devices appear, investigate who can unlock the primary phone and whether the phone itself is compromised.

Check the result​

Only devices you recognize should remain listed. A removed device should no longer be able to open fresh chats through that linked session.

If something goes wrong​

WhatsApp says it cannot provide a full history of who accessed the account or when. Keep your own notes and contact support if you cannot secure the account.

Know the limit​

Unlinking a device does not remotely erase screenshots or content already copied from it. Logging out of a primary device may not immediately end every linked session, so inspect Linked devices directly. WhatsApp linked-device review