When you link a new device to your WhatsApp account, the messaging platform will send a notification to any existing linked devices to alert you that a new device has been linked. This notification is an important security feature that allows you to be aware of any unauthorized access to your account.
What happens when you link a new device
The process of linking a new device to your WhatsApp account is quite straightforward. You simply install the WhatsApp app on the new device, verify your phone number, and log in using your account credentials. This links the device to your account.
As soon as you complete the linking process, a notification will be sent to any existing devices where you are logged in to WhatsApp. This notification typically states “New device linked” and provides details of the newly linked device such as the operating system and a partial number identifier.
For example, if you already have WhatsApp on your iPhone and then link WhatsApp on your Android tablet, you will see a notification on your iPhone that says something like “New device linked – Android 7.1.2 – XXX-XXX-1234”.
The notification serves to alert you that a new device has now been associated with your WhatsApp account. It allows you to identify if an unknown device has been linked without your knowledge, which could indicate that someone else has gained access to your account.
Where do you see the new device notification
The new device notification will be sent to all existing linked devices except the newly linked one. So in the example above, the notification would be sent to the iPhone but not to the newly linked Android tablet.
Specifically, you will see the new device notification in the following places on your existing WhatsApp apps:
- As a popup notification when the app is open
- In the notifications center of your device
- Within the WhatsApp app in the Linked Devices section under Settings
If you miss seeing the popup notification, you can always go into Linked Devices under Settings at any time to view new device notifications. The notification will be stored there until you dismiss it.
Is the notification automatic?
Yes, the new device notification is sent automatically anytime a new device links to your WhatsApp account. You do not have to enable any settings to receive it.
The notification is automatically sent by WhatsApp’s servers to your account and pushed to your devices. There is no way to disable this notification within WhatsApp itself.
Even if you are the one linking the new device, WhatsApp will still send the notification to your existing devices. This ensures you can always confirm that a new link has been made.
What details are included in the notification?
The new device notification contains a few key details to identify the device that was linked:
- Operating system (iOS, Android, Windows, etc)
- OS version number (e.g. Android 7.1.2)
- Partial device identifier (a few digits of the phone number)
In some cases on iOS devices, the notification may also specify the device model (e.g. iPhone, iPad).
These details allow you to recognize whether the device is one you own and intended to link, or an unknown device that may indicate unauthorized access.
Can you disable the notification?
There is no setting within WhatsApp itself to disable the new device notification. Since it is an important security alert, WhatsApp does not allow turning it off.
However, it is possible to mute notifications in your device settings so you do not see the popup alert. For example, in iOS you can mute all WhatsApp notifications. But the notification will still be visible within the WhatsApp app itself.
How long does the notification last?
The new device notification will continue to show in Linked Devices under Settings until you manually dismiss it. There is no time limit or expiration for the alert.
This allows you to review and verify linked devices at any time after linking them. You can dismiss a notification after verifying it is an authorized device link.
Can you tell who linked the device?
The new device notification does not provide any information about which user account initiated the link. You can only see details about the device itself.
If you share your WhatsApp account with multiple people (e.g. family plan), you will not be able to tell which individual user linked the new device.
However, since linking requires access to your phone number and verification code, in most cases it will be obvious if an unknown or unauthorized link was made.
What happens if you get a suspicious notification?
If you receive a new device notification and do not recognize the device details, it could indicate unauthorized access to your WhatsApp account. Some steps you can take include:
- Check the notification on your other linked devices to confirm details
- Go into Linked Devices and click “Logout” on any unknown devices
- Change your WhatsApp password to revoke access
- Enable two-step verification for added security
- Contact WhatsApp to report unauthorized access
Taking quick action by logging out suspicious devices and changing your password can help secure your account and prevent misuse by others.
Can you tell if someone logs out your linked device?
There is no specific notification sent when someone logs out one of your linked devices from WhatsApp. However, there are some signs you may notice if you are logged out remotely:
- You suddenly have to reverify your number/account when opening WhatsApp
- Your messages/groups are missing when you open WhatsApp
- You stop receiving messages and calls on that device
These indications mean you have likely been logged out of that device by another user. You will have to reverify with your number to log back in.
Key Takeaways
- WhatsApp automatically sends a notification when a new device links to your account
- The notification shows on existing linked devices to alert you of the new link
- Details like OS and device ID allow you to identify the new device
- The notification cannot be disabled for security reasons
- If you see an unknown device, take steps to log it out and secure your account
Conclusion
The new device notification on WhatsApp serves an important security purpose by informing you whenever a new device links to your account. Given WhatsApp’s end-to-end encryption and sensitive information within conversations, it is critical to be aware of all devices that have access to your account.
While you cannot disable the notification, you can use it to your advantage by carefully checking any new links. If you see any unauthorized or suspicious device notifications, be sure to take swift action to logout those devices and lock down your account. This will help ensure your WhatsApp account stays secure.