Major warning for WhatsApp users in SA
WhatsApp has issued a major warning to South Africans using the app on how to avoid getting banned.
South African WhatsApp users have been warned against using unofficial WhatsApp apps that could compromise their personal data and result in them being banned from the app.
Using these unofficial apps could leave your personal information vulnerable to cyberattacks, and WhatsApp wants to remind you of the importance of protecting your personal data.
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Unofficial WhatsApp apps, like GBWhatsApp and WhatsApp Plus, may seem like appealing alternatives due to their extra features.
However, these apps come with significant security risks.
According to a report by MyBroadband on February 18, 2025, using these apps puts users at risk of data breaches, malware infections, and even a permanent ban from official WhatsApp.
While GBWhatsApp has attracted millions of users as a modified version of the original app, it's important to remember that it’s not safe to use.
GBWhatsApp is banned because it:
Violates WhatsApp's official terms and conditions.
Poses security and privacy risks.
Has no end-to-end encryption.
Violates WhatsApp's standard policies.
The Google Play Store and Apple App Store have also banned unofficial WhatsApp apps.
WhatsApp can now only be downloaded directly from the web.
Here are nine reasons these unofficial apps unsafe:
Online status control: GBWhatsApp allows users to hide their online status, which might seem like a useful tool for privacy, but it compromises the integrity of the app.
Deleted status and messages: The app lets users view deleted statuses and messages, which poses a privacy risk to both the sender and the receiver.
Blocking calls: GBWhatsApp can block WhatsApp calls from specific users, making it a tool for manipulation of communication.
Message automation: The app offers automated message replies and message scheduling, which can lead to misuse.
Increased file sharing: GBWhatsApp increases the media size limit and allows sending up to 90 messages, a feature that may attract malicious users.
Multiple account use: Users can manage multiple WhatsApp accounts in one app, creating confusion and additional vulnerabilities.
SMS and payment permissions: The app has permission to create and send SMS messages, as well as use payment systems, putting your financial data at risk.
Access to unknown sources: GBWhatsApp can download files from unknown sources, further increasing the likelihood of malware infection.
Device control: The app can remotely control your device and access sensitive information like login credentials.
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