According to Express, WhatsApp has sent urgent warnings to Android users about a dangerous application that can steal sensitive information from them.
Will Cathcart, head of WhatsApp, tweeted on Twitter to warn users about a malware-laden Android app called “Hi WhatsApp” by developer “HiMods”.
Cathcart said the app, which may seem harmless at first, is designed to steal sensitive personal information stored on Android phones.
The app was found outside the Google Play Store, but thankfully Google Play Protect can now detect and disable these malicious and fake versions of WhatsApp.
This was done after Google and WhatsApp cooperated to prevent this dangerous program.
And if you have a free antivirus program, run a scan to check if additional malware is loaded onto your device.
Commenting on the threat, Cathcart said: “WhatsApp users should be reminded that downloading a fake or modded version of the app is never a good idea. These apps look harmless but may be subject to WhatsApp privacy and security terms. “
He continued: “Our security team recently discovered malware inside apps – displayed outside (Google Play) – from a developer called (HiMods), which includes (Hi WhatsApp) and others. “Malware is hidden. These apps promise new features but are just a ploy to steal. Personal information stored on people’s phones.”
“We shared what we found with Google and are working with it to fight malware. Google Play Protect can now detect and disable malicious fake versions of WhatsApp that have been downloaded.”
Cathcart concluded that WhatsApp will continue to work to ban these types of apps from Android devices.
Source: Lebanon Debate
