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Hackers are faking THIS popular messaging app — your data could be at risk!
As more and more of us turn to our phones and devices for communication, we are unfortunately opening ourselves up to a whole new world of risks – one of which is the threat of fake software applications or apps.
Nowadays, it seems like there's a phone app for just about everything, from ordering pizza to booking taxis. And with everyone's lives being so hectic, it's no wonder that many of us have come to rely on these apps to help make our lives easier.
But while they may be helpful at the moment, what many people don't realise is that some of these apps aren't all they're cracked up to be. Some are downright dangerous!
One such app that you should be wary of is WhatsApp — or more specifically, fake versions of it.
Recently, cybersecurity expert Kaspersky has discovered WhatsApp knock-offs marred with malware that compromises users’ data and privacy.
A knockoff version of the popular messaging app WhatsApp has been found to contain security risks. Credit: Pexels/Lisa Fotios
YoWhatsApp version 2.22.11.75 has been identified as carrying a malicious module identified as Trojan.AndroidOS.Triada.eq.
This module works by unpacking itself — much like a real-life virus would once inside our bodies — once installed through the Whatsapp knockoff and takes hold of crucial information that could risk users losing access to their actual accounts.
YoWhatsApp is described as a fully-functioning app with the same set as the original WhatsApp, including message-sending features or user-to-user chats.
It also asks for the same permissions that WhatsApp usually requests once newly installed.
Unfortunately for unsuspecting users who may choose to install YoWhatsApp, these requests, if granted, would also apply to the hidden malicious module.
Kaspersky further reported that the ads are accessible to Snaptube app users through ads for WhatsApp.
Recently in India, cybersecurity research firm ESET found that an unofficial version of WhatsApp called GBWhatsApp was spying on its users. Despite it not being available in Google’s official roster of apps in its Play Store, users were still exposed through websites.
One of the many icons that appear when YoWhatsApp is searched online. Credit: AndroidAPKsFree
But what can be done against this?
For one, always ensure that app downloads come only from legitimate and verified sources of apps such as Google Play Store Google Play Storeand Apple’s App Store.
Even then, exercise utmost caution as just recently, over 400 popular apps on the said official sites were found to contain risky malware.
The Australian Government’s Cyber Security Centre also recommends simple steps like keeping software up-to-date and using anti-virus software to shore up defences against malicious apps.
Source: YouTube/Lookout
Do you use WhatsApp or other similar applications? What’s your reaction to this story? It’s so scary how easily these apps can be faked.
Do you also have certain considerations before installing new software on your phone?
By all means, please share with us your comments and reactions!
