WhatsApp users have been alerted to a new scam circulating on the popular instant messaging platform, targeting unsuspecting individuals with the lure of an exclusive version of the app known as ‘WhatsApp Pink.’ Promising a vibrant pink theme and additional features not found in the official version, this deceptive campaign can steal personal data, including banking details, contact information, and photos.
The WhatsApp Pink scam came to light in April 2021 when renowned internet security researcher Rajshekhar Rajaharia exposed its malicious nature on Twitter. Despite efforts to raise awareness, the fraud has resurfaced, prompting the Mumbai Police Cyber Crime Wing to issue a red alert and caution users about the potential risks associated with the app.
Rajshekhar Rajaharia warns users about the dangers of the WhatsApp Pink scam, stating, “This malicious app can compromise your privacy and financial security. It can access your data, modify system settings, and even infect other devices through your contact list on WhatsApp.”
The deceptive nature of the scam lies in its seemingly harmless appearance. Upon installation, WhatsApp Pink operates similarly to the official version, concealing its true intent of data theft. Once installed on a device, the app gains unauthorized access to sensitive information, such as banking credentials, One-Time Passwords (OTPs), and personal media files. The potential for data breaches and financial loss is significant.
To protect themselves from scams like WhatsApp Pink, users should adhere to the following precautions:
- Download apps only from trusted sources like the Google Play Store, avoiding unfamiliar websites and unauthenticated APKs.
- Exercise caution when clicking on links from unknown sources and refrain from downloading apps sent by unfamiliar individuals.
- Utilize WhatsApp’s “Forwarded” label to identify whether a message originated from a friend or a potentially malicious source.
If users have fallen victim to the WhatsApp Pink scam, it is crucial to promptly uninstall the app from their devices. However, the app may attempt to hide itself from the list of installed apps. To ensure the complete removal, users should:
- Verify that WhatsApp Pink is not linked to any other devices by checking the “Linked devices” section in WhatsApp.
- Manually remove suspicious devices to prevent further access to personal data.
- Thoroughly search all download folders on the device to ensure no remnants of the app or associated files remain.
WhatsApp Pink is a reminder that cybercriminals are constantly evolving their tactics to exploit unsuspecting individuals. WhatsApp users should remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to the relevant authorities. Users are encouraged to exercise caution, stay informed about the latest scams, and educate their peers and family members about potential threats on messaging platforms.
