Having suspicions that your partner or someone else close to you may have a secret WhatsApp account can be stressful and concerning. While there are no foolproof ways to definitively know if someone else has another WhatsApp account, there are some signs you can look out for and steps you can take to investigate further.
Signs Someone May Have Another WhatsApp Account
Here are some common signs that could indicate a person has an additional WhatsApp account you don’t know about:
- They frequently seem to be texting or chatting on their phone but get secretive when you approach or ask who they’re talking to
- They abruptly stop texting or quickly switch screens when you enter the room
- You hear WhatsApp notification sounds coming from their phone but they say it’s nothing or that they’re notifications are turned off
- You notice a second WhatsApp icon on one of their home screens
- Their WhatsApp icon shows a different number of unread messages than what you see when opening the app
- They frequently take their phone with them when they leave the room or are evasive about leaving their phone unattended
- You notice names you don’t recognize in their WhatsApp notifications
- They become noticeably protective, defensive, or secretive of their phone and communication
While any of these behaviors alone may not prove someone has a secret WhatsApp account, if you notice multiple signs it could indicate a need for further investigation. However, it’s important not to jump to conclusions based only on suspicions.
Check Their WhatsApp Settings
One of the easiest ways to find out if someone has another WhatsApp account linked to their phone is to check their WhatsApp settings when you have access to their phone:
- Open WhatsApp on their phone
- Go to Settings > Linked Devices
- This will show all devices and accounts that are linked to that phone number
- If you see any unfamiliar devices or numbers, that indicates additional WhatsApp accounts
However, this method only works if they have their secondary account linked to that device. They may be using WhatsApp through a browser or secondary device you’re unaware of.
Monitor Their Online Status
You can also monitor someone’s WhatsApp online status to see if they may be using it at odd times:
- Make note of when you see them actively using WhatsApp on their phone
- Then check their profile or your chat thread later to see their “last seen” time
- If you notice them popping online during times they don’t normally use WhatsApp, it could mean they’re logged in elsewhere
However, this method isn’t foolproof either. They may have settings adjusted to not share their activity status or could just be checking WhatsApp sporadically on their main account.
Use a Phone Monitoring App
One more invasive but potentially effective technique is to use a phone monitoring app. These allow you to discretely track activity on someone’s device including:
- Text messages
- Chat apps used
- Websites visited
- Location history
- Screenshots
If you install one on a device you have sufficient access to, you can monitor for secondary WhatsApp accounts or conversations. However, these apps can raise privacy concerns and may not be legal in all areas, so check laws first.
Ask Directly
Finally, you can directly ask the person if they have another WhatsApp account. This is the most straightforward approach, but also relies on them being honest. Plan what you’ll say ahead of time, ask in a calm manner, and explain why you’re asking. Gauge their reaction carefully as they respond.
If you suspect a partner of cheating, you may want to hold off on asking directly until you’ve gathered more proof. But in other cases, a direct question may resolve your concerns or reveal the truth.
What To Do If You Find Another Account
If your suspicions are confirmed and you do uncover proof of a secret WhatsApp account, what should you do? Here are some tips:
- Get evidence. Save screenshots or recordings in case you need proof.
- Confront thoughtfully. Plan what to say and try to remain calm.
- Discuss honestly. Allow them to explain but don’t tolerate lies or omissions.
- Set boundaries. Explain what needs to change going forward.
- Get counseling. For relationships, seek support to rebuild broken trust if desired.
- Let go if needed. You may realize the relationship is too damaged to repair.
Discovering a hidden WhatsApp account can be extremely emotionally painful. Be kind to yourself through the process. Seek support from trusted loved ones as you work through next steps. With time and self-care, you can recover and regain confidence, whether that involves repairing the relationship or moving on.
Conclusion
Having a partner or someone close hiding an additional WhatsApp account can erode trust and stir up relationship doubts. While there’s no definitive way to uncover a secret account, watching for suspicious signs, monitoring online status, and using phone apps can provide clues. If you do find proof, approach carefully, get evidence, and think through how to proceed for your wellbeing. With support, time and self-care, you can work through this betrayal and regain confidence.