WhatsApp boasts strong end-to-end encryption, meaning that messages are encrypted on your device and can only be decrypted by the recipient's device. Not even WhatsApp can read your messages. However, this doesn't mean your chats are completely immune to monitoring. The primary ways someone might monitor your WhatsApp chats involve gaining physical access to your device or tricking you into installing malware/spyware.

Here's how to find out if someone might be monitoring your WhatsApp chats and what to do about it:

How to Find Out Who's Monitoring Your WhatsApp Chats
1. Check Linked Devices (WhatsApp Web/Desktop)

This is the most common and easiest way for someone to access your WhatsApp remotely without your direct knowledge, especially if they've had brief physical access to your phone to scan a QR code.

How to check:

Open WhatsApp on your phone.

Go to Settings (or tap the three dots on Android, then "Linked devices").

Tap Linked Devices.

You will see a list of all active sessions (e.g., "Chrome (Windows)", "Desktop", "Safari").

What to look for: If you see any device you don't recognize or any active session you haven't initiated, someone might be monitoring your chats.

Action: Immediately tap on the unrecognized device and select "Log Out". You can also choose "Log Out of All Devices" to be safe.

2. Look for Signs of Spyware / Monitoring Apps

These apps are designed to run in the background, often hidden, and can forward your messages, calls, and other phone activity to a third party. They require someone to have had physical access to your phone to install them.

Unusual Battery Drain: Spyware constantly runs in the background, consuming battery. If your phone battery is draining significantly faster than usual without heavy usage, it could be a sign.

Overheating Phone: Similar to battery drain, a phone that consistently overheats even during light use might be running hidden, demanding applications.

Unusual Data Usage: Check your phone's data usage settings. A sudden spike in data consumption, especially background data, could indicate spyware transmitting information.

Slow Performance/Lags: Your phone might become noticeably slower, apps may crash more often, or it might freeze periodically.

Unfamiliar Apps:

Go to your phone's Settings > Apps (or "Applications," "App Manager").

Scroll through the list of all installed apps, including system apps if your phone allows. Look for any apps you don't recognize, didn't install, or that have suspicious names (e.g., "System Service," "Monitor," "Spyware," or seemingly benign names that don't match known apps).

Action: If you find a suspicious app, do not open it. Research it online first. If it's confirmed spyware, uninstall it immediately.

Unusual Background Noise During Calls: While rare, some advanced spyware can record calls and might introduce faint background noise or echoes.

Messages Marked as Read (You Didn't Read): If you notice messages appearing as read even though you haven't opened them, it could mean someone else is accessing your WhatsApp.

Unsynced Notifications: If you receive notifications for messages on your lock screen but find them already opened or missing when you enter the app, it might suggest someone else is getting to them first.

3. Check WhatsApp Account Settings

Profile Changes: Occasionally check your profile picture, "About" section, and phone number in WhatsApp settings. If you notice any unauthorized changes, your account might have been compromised.

Security Notifications: Enable security notifications in WhatsApp. Go to Settings > Account > Security and toggle on "Show security notifications." This will alert you if your security code with a contact changes, which can happen if either of you (or an unauthorized party) reinstalls WhatsApp, switches phones, or adds/removes a linked device.

4. Be Wary of Login Attempts

If you receive an SMS with a WhatsApp verification code that you did not request, it means someone is trying to register your phone number on another device. Do NOT share this code with anyone. If you see a message pop up in WhatsApp saying "Your phone number was registered with WhatsApp on a new device," immediately follow the on-screen steps to recover your account, as someone has successfully registered your number elsewhere.

Immediate Actions to Take if You Suspect Monitoring:
Log Out of All Linked Devices: This is the first and most critical step.

Enable Two-Step Verification (If Not Already On):

Go to WhatsApp Settings > Account > Two-Step Verification > Enable.

Create a 6-digit PIN that only you know. This PIN will be required when you register your phone number with WhatsApp again.

Add an email address for PIN reset in case you forget it. This greatly enhances your account security.

Change Your Phone's PIN/Password: If someone had physical access, they might know your phone's unlock code. Change it to a strong, unique one.

Review and Uninstall Suspicious Apps: Go through your phone's app list thoroughly.

Run an Antivirus/Anti-Spyware Scan: Download a reputable mobile antivirus or anti-spyware app from your device's official app store (Google Play Store for Android, App Store for iPhone) and run a full scan.

Update Your Phone's OS and Apps: Keep your operating system and all apps (especially WhatsApp) updated. Updates often include security patches.

Factory Reset (Last Resort): If you've tried everything and still suspect your phone is compromised, a factory reset will wipe all data and potentially remove any spyware. Back up your important data first!

Prevention is Key:
Never Share Your Verification Code/PIN: This is the golden rule. No one from WhatsApp will ever ask for it.

Always Lock Your Phone: Use a strong PIN, password, fingerprint, or facial recognition.

Be Careful with Physical Access: Don't leave your phone unattended or lend it to untrusted individuals.

Be Wary of Suspicious Links/Attachments: Do not click on links or open attachments from unknown senders in emails, SMS, or even WhatsApp, as they could contain malware.

Download Apps Only from Official Stores: Avoid third-party app stores or unofficial websites.

Regularly Check Linked Devices: Make it a habit to periodically review your WhatsApp linked devices list.

While WhatsApp's end-to-end encryption protects the content of your messages in transit, the vulnerability often lies in the security of your device itself. By being vigilant and taking these steps, you can significantly reduce the risk of someone monitoring your chats.