Security firm researchers have warned phone users about a fake WhatsApp app called YoWhatsApp.
WhatsAppinstant messaging app is an accompanying application for texting, calling, video calling, education, business purpose and more. Its growing popularity has made it a hotspot for cybercriminals. Recently, a fake WhatsApp-looking app called YoWhatsApp appeared on Internet are deceiving users by tricking them into using fake versions of apps that contain malware. It allows hacker to hack users’ accounts and steal their information. YoWhatsApp is a fully functioning messaging app that requires the same permissions as the standard WhatsApp app including SMS access. Permissions are even granted to the Triada Trojan embedded in the app. Malicious apps are promoted through ads on popular Android apps like Snaptube and Vidmate.
The app even allows users to customize the interface or block access to chats, enticing users to install it. The YoWhatsApp campaign was first discovered by security researchers at Kaspersky. The scary thing about this application is that it steals WhatsApp’s access keys and allows attackers to perform various actions without the user’s consent. Besides that, attackers can also eavesdrop on chats, steal identity data, and more.
Furthermore, it could even allow users to enroll victims with premium services, making them pay without notice.
That’s not all, researchers have found another YoWhatsApp clone named “WhatsApp Plus”, which has the same malicious function. This app is being spread through VidMate app. A few months ago, Will Cathcart, Head of WhatsApp at Meta, also warned users against using this fake WhatsApp that could compromise users’ data on their phones. He tweeted, “Recently, our security team discovered malware lurking in apps – provided outside of Google Play – from a developer named ‘HeyMods’ included” Hey WhatsApp “and other apps.”
How to stay safe from fake WhatsApp apps?
Users should only install apps from authorized sources, such as the official Google Play Store or Apple App Store to prevent attacks by these malicious apps.
Cathcart also requires users to download from trusted app stores like Google Play Store or App Store or install directly from Whatsapp official website to protect themselves from any malware attacks. what harm.
In case you have downloaded this fake app, be sure to remove it immediately from your phone. There is no other solution.
