Today, Android users are fake versions of whatsapp called Pink WhatsApp, which contain malware, according to the cyber security police in Mumbai, India.
The fake “pink WhatsApp” app was spread by promoting it on the original app through messages purporting to be a new version of the popular app with a different design, attaching a link to upload from suspicious sites and not the Google Play store, according to aitnews.
According to the Mumbai Police tweets, the app is a modified version of WhatsApp with a pink interface contrary to the traditional Android version of the app and annoying ads when used.
In the background, the fake app installs malware on the victim’s device that will allow hackers to access personal data and sensitive information such as photos, messages, and contacts.
The malicious app follows a popular strategy to deploy and target more users by sending attractive messages with a link to upload to contacts on the victim’s device in order to urge them to download the app, and so more victims are being targeted again.
To protect against such applications, it is recommended that you only download apps or updates to Android devices from the official Google Play store.
It is mentioned that Meta, the owner of WhatsApp, always stresses the need to refrain from using informal WhatsApp applications, which are widespread among Android users, and the company describes them as “counterfeit apps for software developed by third parties”, noting that they do not support these applications because of the uncertainty of their security practices
