The WhatsApp Pink scam is circulating on the Internet and is a new phishing campaign targeting WhatsApp users. The scam consists of sending users a link to a fake WhatsApp application disguised as an official update.
Once the user clicks on the link and installs the fake app, scammers can gain access to the user’s personal data, including their phone number, contact list, and financial information. Mumbai Police issued a red alert regarding the same in their recent tweet.
*… WHATSAPP PINK -A red alert for Android users…*’
*..
*.. क रेड अलर्ट…*#CyberSafeMumbai
GREETINGS, NORTHERN REGION CYBER POLICE STATION, CRIME BRANCH, CID, MUMBAI pic.twitter.com/viTbVrcWrn
— NORTHERN REGION CYBER POLICE CRIME WING (@north_mum)
June 16, 2023
How does the WhatsApp Pink scam work?
The WhatsApp Pink scam works by sending users a message that appears to be from WhatsApp. The message will usually say something like “There is a new update for WhatsApp Pink. Click here to download it.”
When the user clicks on the link, they are redirected to a website very similar to the official WhatsApp website. However, the pink update website is actually fake and is controlled and monitored by scammers.
This new link that is being forwarded on the Internet is a phishing scam that can cause damage to personal and banking information.
Once the user clicks on the “Download” button, a new fake version of WhatsApp will be installed on their phone which will be pink in color. The fake app will then ask the user to enter their phone number and password. Once the user enters this information, the scammers will have access to their WhatsApp account.
The malware will be automatically installed on the devices after adding this fake app. This scam is in circulation and harms Android users. There are no official warnings for iOS users.
This scam was first detected by Rajshekhar Rajaharia, an Internet security researcher. In his tweet he wrote “Watch out for @WhatsApp Pink!! A Virus is spreading in #WhatsApp groups with APK download link. Do not click on any link with the name WhatsApp Pink. Full access to your phone will be lost. Share with everyone…”
Careful with @WhatsApp Pink!! A virus is spreading in #WhatsApp groups with an APK download link. Do not click on any link with the name WhatsApp Pink. Full access to your phone will be lost. Share with everyone…#InfoSec #Virus @IndianCERT @internetlibertad @jackerhack @sanjg2k1 pic.twitter.com/KbbtK536F2
– Rajshekhar Rajaharia (@rajaharia)
April 17, 2021
How to protect yourself from WhatsApp Pink scam?
There are a few things you can do to protect yourself from the WhatsApp Pink scam:
- If you have already installed the application, it is essential that you delete it by going to Settings > Applications > WhatsApp (with pink logo) > Uninstall.
- If you were using this fake application, it is essential that you change your passwords and update your banking information. Also, please report any unusual activity on your account.
- Never click on links in messages from people you don’t know.
- Download apps only from official app stores, such as Google Play Store or Apple App Store.
- Be suspicious of any app that promises new features or functionality that are not available in the official WhatsApp app or have not been announced.
- Keep your phone’s operating system and security software up to date.
In conclusion, WhatsApp Pink scam is a serious threat to WhatsApp users. By following the advice, you can protect yourself from this scam and keep your personal information safe. It’s important to remember that WhatsApp will never send you a message asking you to update your app or click on a link. If you receive a message like this, it is likely a scam.
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Categories: Optical Illusion
Source: ptivs2.edu.vn