WhatsApp pink scam: How to avoid it
Updated | By Mack Rapapali Nights
Cybersecurity researchers are warning WhatsApp users about a new scam that's stealing user data.
WhatsApp has become a major target for scammers and hackers.
We recently wrote about the OTP scam where hackers are exploiting the OTPs to access people's accounts. Now, another WhatsApp scam called 'WhatsApp Pink Scam' has emerged.
The WhatsApp Pink Scam is a malicious app that has a similar interface as WhatsApp but it's pink. To promote app downloads of the fake 'WhatsApp' app, users are receiving several messages encouraging them to install the app using a link.
The message urges users to download the pink version and pulls them by claiming that the pink version of the app comes with new features for the users.
While the 'WhatsApp Pink' app changes the colour of the app to pink, it actually contains malicious malware.
ALSO SEE: Warning for WhatsApp users over account suspension ‘hack’
The scary thing about the app, apart from the fact that it will be able to steal your sensitive personal data which scammers can use to hack your other accounts, once the app is installed on your phone, it goes into hiding mode, making it hard for you to get rid of it.
If you've already installed it, here's how to get rid of it; go to settings > app > select 'WhatsApp Pink app', and uninstall.
Cybersecurity researcher Rajshekhar Rajaharia reported about the scam on Twitter:
Beware of @WhatsApp Pink!! A Virus is being spread in #WhatsApp groups with an APK download link. Don't click any link with the name of WhatsApp Pink. Complete access to your phone will be lost. Share with All..#InfoSec #Virus @IndianCERT @internetfreedom @jackerhack @sanjg2k1 pic.twitter.com/KbbtK536F2
— Rajshekhar Rajaharia (@rajaharia) April 17, 2021
Image Credit: Rajshekhar Rajaharia
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