I'm in a bit of a bind here and need some help. After switching from a Pixel 7 Pro to a Pixel 8 Pro, I'm unable to log in to my WhatsApp account. Both phones are standard Android with no custom ROMs or rooting involved, and I've confirmed that everything is updated. When I try to log in, I get an error message saying: "You need the official WhatsApp to log in. The app you are using has privacy and security risks. You can no longer use this app to access your WhatsApp chats." I've already tried several troubleshooting steps like reinstalling WhatsApp, restarting my phone, connecting via both Wi-Fi and mobile data, and even requesting new verification codes. I also checked the date and time settings and made sure my apps are up to date. Interestingly, linking devices isn't working, but I can still log into WhatsApp on my old Pixel 7 Pro. WhatsApp support seems unhelpful and keeps sending the same automated replies. Any ideas on what I can do?
2 Answers
That error message sounds strange, especially if you’re using the official app from the Play Store. It might be that WhatsApp is detecting something unusual about your new device or how the app was transferred. Did you use any transfer tools during your phone setup? Sometimes that leads to issues because WhatsApp may think it's a modified version. For now, keep the old Pixel 7 Pro logged in and try not to log out until you sort this. You could try completely wiping WhatsApp from the Pixel 8 Pro—like clearing cache and data, uninstalling, and then downloading it fresh from the Play Store instead of restoring it. Give that a shot!
Unfortunately, I don’t think we can resolve account issues here. It seems like you'll have to get in touch with WhatsApp support. They're the only ones who can give you a definitive answer on this issue.
How do I actually reach a real person at WhatsApp support? I’ve only been getting these quick AI responses and it’s really frustrating!
I reinstalled it on the Pixel 7 Pro but my media restore got stuck, though I can still chat on it. I did wipe and reinstall on the Pixel 8 multiple times through the Play Store, but it's still not working.