Running Dual App WhatsApp: What Are The Risks?

For security reasons, WhatsApp only allows you to register one account for each unique mobile number. But what are your options if you want to use two WhatsApp accounts at the same time?

Let’s take a look at the pros and cons of running two WhatsApp apps at the same time on one phone. We’ll explain how it works, what the risks are, and why using a second virtual phone number to set up WhatsApp Business is a better solution.

What is dual WhatsApp?

Dual WhatsApp is when you are logged into two WhatsApp Messenger accounts at the same time on one phone.

You can only register one WhatsApp account per unique mobile phone number, so you’ll need a second virtual phone number or a device that supports dual SIMs in order to have two active WhatsApp accounts on one phone.

How does dual WhatsApp work on Android devices?

WhatsApp now supports ‘switching’ between two WhatsApp Messenger accounts on the same Android phone, without needing to log in and out of your accounts. You can also ‘clone’ the WhatsApp app, so you have two apps running simultaneously, activated with different numbers.

Many Android smartphones offer dual-SIM support, meaning you can have two numbers that you switch between on one device.

The dual account feature still includes all the normal features and tools of WhatsApp Messenger. You’ll have an ‘active’ account, which is the one that you’re currently logged into, and an ‘idle’ account, which is the one that you’re currently logged out of. You can customise each account separately, choosing a different profile picture and profile information, privacy settings, and notification settings.

It’s important to note that dual WhatsApp only works for WhatsApp Messenger, so if you want to use your second account for professional use, you’ll miss out on all the benefits of WhatsApp Business.

How can I set up dual WhatsApp Messenger on Android devices?

You’ll need either a second virtual phone number or a device that takes multiple SIMs (along with a second SIM and phone contract) in order to activate your additional account. Visit WhatsApp’s FAQ pages to find out how to set up a second WhatsApp Messenger account.

Alternatively, you can install both WhatsApp Messenger and WhatsApp Business on one phone, with a flexible, low-cost second virtual phone number provider such as YourBusinessNumber.

What if I have an iPhone?

It’s not currently possible to use dual WhatsApp on an Apple device. However, you can install both WhatsApp Messenger and WhatsApp Business on one device – as long as you have a second virtual phone number to register your second account with.

What are the risks of using dual WhatsApp accounts?

WhatsApp takes security very seriously, which is why the platform offers end-to-end encryption on all messages, including those sent using the new dual WhatsApp accounts feature.

However, there are some things to bear in mind when using dual WhatsApp accounts:

Unofficial apps may not be secure

Third-party, or unofficial, WhatsApp apps copy the functionality of WhatsApp, but don’t offer the same end-to-end encryption or security features that have been developed by WhatsApp. If you use these unofficial apps, your data may be at risk. Only ever download the app from trusted sources, such as the App Store or Google Play Store, and stay away from third-party apps that try to imitate or integrate with WhatsApp.

Increased risk of data breaches

Some experts say that having two accounts linked with the dual WhatsApp feature increases your vulnerability to hackers. This is because if one WhatsApp account is compromised, hackers could be able to use the link between the two to access the other. And if you’re using WhatsApp Messenger for professional use, that could pose a big problem.

Lack of business tools

Those looking to set up a second WhatsApp account for business use may be disappointed by dual-access WhatsApp Messenger. By opting for Messenger rather than the specialised WhatsApp Business app, you’ll miss out on all the incredible features that WhatsApp Business has to offer.

Why is WhatsApp Business a better option than dual WhatsApp for professional use?

If you want to use a second WhatsApp account for work, WhatsApp Business is a much better solution than setting up dual WhatsApp Messenger accounts. You can install both the WhatsApp Messenger app and the WhatsApp Business account on the same phone.

There are so many advantages to using WhatsApp Business with a second virtual phone number. Just like with dual WhatsApp, you can keep your messages on both accounts separate, helping you to maintain an optimal work-life balance.

You can also protect the privacy of your professional contacts by keeping their numbers and information saved on your work-only account, rather than mixed in with personal messages.

Having separate apps also reduces the risk of accidentally sending a potentially embarrassing private message to a professional contact – something we’d all like to avoid!

WhatsApp Business is packed with powerful tools, features and productivity hacks to help you connect with clients and maximise the results from your business communications.

With WhatsApp Business, you can set up a business profile that lets your customers know exactly who you are, what you do, where you’re located and how they can get in touch with your team.

You can also create a business catalogue to showcase your company’s products or services.

Tools such as labels help you to stay on top of your messages, track customers through your sales funnel, and monitor high-priority chats with ease. Quick replies save you time and effort, keeping your response times short and your customers happy.

If you opt for dual WhatsApp Messenger instead, you miss out on all these benefits. You’ll also risk looking unprofessional to your customers, which could cost you dearly in terms of reputation and relationships with clients.

How can I get started on WhatsApp Business with YourBusinessNumber?

At YourBusinessNumber, we make it quick and easy to harness the incredible power of WhatsApp Business. If you already use WhatsApp Messenger to contact family and friends, you’ll need a second virtual phone number to verify your new business account and run both apps on the same phone.

Think that sounds tricky to set up? Think again. We generate your brand new unique number in just three clicks and send it to you via SMS. You can then use this number to set up your business account.

If you need help at any point in the process, our comprehensive customer support will help you get back on track. Plus, with cost-effective, stress-free and flexible plans, you’re in complete control. So, what are you waiting for? Generate your new business number today.