Is this just a ghost story — or something that could really happen? A “message from the dead” often sounds spooky, but in reality it can stem from weak account security, scheduled automations, or bot misuse. Here’s how it happens — and how to protect yourself.
Hello, this is Jay.
I’ve been posting only serious technical articles lately, so today, I wanted to try something different.
How This Could Actually Happen
1) Account Hijacking
If someone hacks into the deceased person’s account or guesses their password, they can send messages as if the person were still alive. SNS platforms like KakaoTalk, Facebook, and Instagram are especially vulnerable if security settings are weak. I’ll write another post later about how hacking works and how to prevent it.
2) Scheduled Messages
Sometimes, a person may have scheduled a message before passing away. Certain apps allow you to send messages at a future time. If such automation was in place, the message could be sent even after their death. It reminds me of the old movie The Letter, starring Choi Jin-sil and Park Shin-yang.
3) API and Bot Automation
Some hackers use public APIs to create bots that send messages automatically. Telegram, in particular, is known for this. In such cases, an account could be used to send messages without the owner’s knowledge or consent.
Lessons and Digital Safety Tips
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Strengthen Account Security. Always enable two-factor authentication. A simple password alone is not enough to protect your account.
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Manage Digital Legacy. Platforms like Naver, Google, Apple, and Facebook have “digital legacy” or “account after death” policies. Setting this up in advance allows your family to safely handle your accounts later.
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Beware of Suspicious Links. Some so-called “ghost messages” actually lead to phishing sites. If the message source is unclear, never click the link — it could be a trap. (This is extremely important.)
Closing Thoughts
A message from the dead may sound like a ghost story, but in reality, it often stems from weak account security and the digital traces we leave behind. A “KakaoTalk from beyond the grave” isn’t merely a creepy tale — it’s a reminder for the living to reflect on the digital shadows we create every day.
You can view the original Korean blog post at the link below