A report has revealed a new WhatsApp scam that gives hackers full access to users' private chats.
Cyber security experts have warned of a nasty new scam capable of hacking into private conversations and stealing money from chat app lovers.
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The latest threat was discovered by Kaspersky's cybersecurity team, which discovered the spread of malicious code via a modified and unofficial version of WhatsApp.
Although WhatsApp is completely free to use and download on both iPhone and Android, some users are often tempted by modified versions of the app available in online app stores.
These unofficial apps promise to bring new and exciting features not found in the original Facebook-owned app, such as the ability to check when contacts were last online, without revealing your presence, reply to messages other users have deleted, and much more. .
However, installing these applications can be full of dangers that can leave users facing many nightmares. An app called FMWhatsapp was recently targeted by nasty malware, called Triada mobile Trojan, and it can wreak some serious havoc on devices.
Once infected, the virus starts shooting endless unwanted ads on your screen that cannot be turned off.
Even worse, users are then signed up for expensive subscription services without their permission. In fact, the whole process takes place in an invisible window with the press of the "Subscribe" button automatically.
Perhaps the most dangerous part of the attack is that it can also allow all strangers to read and intercept personal chats sent via the popular service.
Speaking about the discovery, Igor Golovin, a cybersecurity expert at Kaspersky, said: “With this application, it is difficult for users to recognize a potential threat because the mod is already doing what is suggested, it is adding additional features. However, we have noticed how cybercriminals have started "This is why we recommend using Messenger which is downloaded from official app stores. It may lack some add-ons, but it won't install a bunch of malware on your smartphone."Besides detecting the threat, Kaspersky experts have also released some guidelines to help WhatsApp users stay safe. This includes:
• Only install apps from official stores and trusted resources
• Remember to check the permissions you give to installed apps, some of them can be very dangerous
• Install a reliable portable antivirus on your smartphone. It will detect and prevent potential threats.
Source: Express
