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Connect WhatsApp to your Claw instance by scanning a QR code — just like WhatsApp Web.

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Prerequisites

WhatsApp uses your real phone number. Messages sent through the bot will appear as coming from your WhatsApp account. Use a dedicated number if you want separation.
VoIP numbers are not supported. WhatsApp requires a real SIM-based phone number. Virtual numbers (Google Voice, Skype, etc.) will not work for QR code pairing.

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Setup Guide

1

Save WhatsApp Configuration

  1. Go to your Claw Dashboard
  2. Click the settings icon on your instance
  3. Open the IM Integrations tab
  4. Expand the WhatsApp section
  5. Configure the Access Policy (allowlist recommended)
  6. Click Save first — you must save the configuration before scanning the QR code
2

Scan the QR Code

  1. Click Scan QR Code button
  2. A QR code will appear (valid for ~60 seconds)
  3. On your phone, open WhatsApp → Settings → Linked Devices → Link a Device
  4. Scan the QR code displayed on screen
  5. Wait for the connection to establish
3

Configure Access Policy

WhatsApp uses the allowlist policy — only phone numbers you specify can interact with the AI bot.Add allowed phone numbers in the LemonData dashboard (international format, e.g., +1234567890).
Unlike other platforms, WhatsApp does not support the pairing mechanism. You must explicitly add allowed contacts.
4

Start Chatting

Send a message to the connected WhatsApp number from an allowed contact — the AI will respond!

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Group Settings

WhatsApp groups are supported. Configure group behavior in the IM Integrations tab:
SettingOptionsDescription
Group PolicyOpen (default) / Allowlist / DisabledControls who can trigger the bot in groups
Require @mentionOn / OffBot only responds when @mentioned
Group IDsList of group JIDsRestrict to specific groups (empty = all groups)
Group Allowed UsersList of phone numbersOnly these users can trigger the bot (allowlist mode)
Use E.164 format for phone numbers in the group allowlist (e.g., +1234567890).

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Troubleshooting

Click Scan QR Code again to generate a fresh code. QR codes expire after ~60 seconds.
WhatsApp may disconnect linked devices after inactivity. Re-scan the QR code to reconnect.
  • Check that the sender’s number is in your allowlist (if using allowlist policy)
  • Verify your instance is running
  • Check your LemonData balance