WhatsApp Pink scam is spreading on the internet, this is a new phishing campaign targeting WhatsApp users. The scam involves sending users a link to a fake WhatsApp app disguised as an official update.
After users click on the link and install the fake app, scammers can access the user’s personal data, including their phone number, contact list, and financial information. . Mumbai Police had issued a red alert regarding the same in its recent tweet.
*… WHATSAPP PINK -Red warning for Android users …*’
*… Android वापरकर्त्यांसाठी रेड …*
*…व्हाट्सएप गुलाबी (पिंक) Android Android Apps क रेड अलर्ट…*#CyberSafeMumbai
Sincerely, NORTHERN REGION CYBER POLICE STATION, CRIME BRANCH, CID, MUMBAI pic.twitter.com/enTbVrcWrn
— NORTHERN REGIONAL CYBER POLICE CRIME DEPARTMENT (@north_mum)
June 16, 2023
How does the WhatsApp Pink scam work?
The WhatsApp Pink scam works by sending the user a message that appears to be from WhatsApp. The message will usually have something like “There is a new update for WhatsApp Pink. Click here to download.”
When users click on the link, they will be redirected to a website that looks very similar to WhatsApp’s official website. However, the pink update site is actually fake and is controlled and monitored by scammers.
This new link being forwarded on the internet is a phishing scam that can cause damage to personal and banking information.
Once the user clicks the “Download” button, a new fake version of WhatsApp will be installed on their phone in a pink color. The fake app will then ask the user to enter their phone number and password. After the user enters this information, the scammers will gain access to their WhatsApp account.
Malware will automatically be installed on the device after adding this fake app. This scam is circulating and harming Android users. There is no official warning for iOS users.
This scam was first discovered by Rajshekhar Rajaharia, an Internet security researcher. In his tweet, he wrote “Be careful with @WhatsApp Pink!! A Virus is spreading in #WhatsApp groups with APK download link. Do not click on any link named WhatsApp Pink. Full access to your phone will be lost. Share with all..”
Beware @WhatsApp Pink!! A virus is spreading in #WhatsApp group with APK download link. Do not click on any link named WhatsApp Pink. Full access to your phone will be lost. Share with everyone..#InformationSec #Virus @IndianCERT @internetfreedom @jackerhack @sanjg2k1 pic.twitter.com/KbbtK536F2
– Rajshekhar Rajaharia (@rajaharia)
April 17, 2021
How to protect yourself from the WhatsApp Pink scam?
There are a few things you can do to protect yourself from the WhatsApp Pink scam:
- If you have the app installed, it is essential that you remove it by going to Settings > Apps > WhatsApp (with the pink logo) > Uninstall.
- If you are using this fake app, it is essential that you change your password and update your banking information. Furthermore, report any unusual activity on your account.
- Never click on links in messages from people you don’t know.
- Only download apps from official app stores, such as the Google Play Store or Apple App Store.
- Be suspicious of any app that promises new features or functionality that aren’t in the official WhatsApp app or haven’t been announced yet.
- Always keep your phone’s operating system and security software up to date.
In short, the WhatsApp Pink scam is a serious threat to WhatsApp users. By following these tips, you can help protect yourself from this scam and keep your personal information safe. It’s important to remember that WhatsApp will never send you messages asking you to update the app or click on links. If you receive a message like this, it’s most likely a scam.
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Categories: Optical Illusion
Source: pagasa.edu.vn