WhatsApp is today’s new SMS. This app, owned by Meta, does more things beyond just instant messaging. Users can also make video calls, and voice calls using the platform. Because of these things, somehow, WhatsApp has been dubbed the “gold standard” of texting apps, primarily because of its straightforward nature and ease of use.
Nevertheless, certain people are taking advantage of WhatsApp’s functions to dupe or scam people, or worse, even gain access to users’ data without their permission, such as this newest WhatsApp scam that has been making rounds lately and spreading like wildfire, even urging countries to warn its citizens against this. This scam is hiding under the name “Pink WhatsApp.” Here’s the news.
What Pink WhatsApp is all about
As the name suggests, Pink WhatsApp entices WhatsApp users as it claims that it will turn their app’s color theme into pink. Sounds cool, right? But beware. This platform actually does more harm than good, with the worst-case scenario being that it can gain access to your personal data.
WhatsApp Pink is a fake version of WhatsApp that claims to offer users enhanced features, particularly having the color theme of their app turn into pink.
Everything starts when scammers send alerts to users inviting them to download the app, which is actually an APK file. They use flowery wordings like “New Pink WhatsApp Officially Launched With Extra Features, Must Try This,” and “Update Your WhatsApp To Enjoy New Features With Pink Look, Must Try This,” among others.
But actually, the app is a dangerous malware. Downloading Pink WhatsApp grants these scammers access to your phone’s data, providing them the opportunity to steal your information. These data may include your bank details, contact numbers, photos, and so much more. Additionally, installing this app allows fraudsters to install spyware into the victim’s device, giving them complete access to stuff that includes calls and messages.
At times, alerts to download Pink WhatsApp may also come from your contact – your friend or family member – whose phone has been hacked. Once a device is hacked, it will send invitations to everyone on the victim’s contact list.
Now, with an increasing number of people falling prey to this scam, authorities from various countries like India, Singapore, and Malaysia have issued warnings saying that people should not download such app nor patronize the links they receive related to this.
Here’s how to protect yourself
If, in any case, you have downloaded Pink WhatsApp, there are ways you can do to mitigate the issue so it won’t escalate.
If you installed Pink WhatsApp, delete the app immediately. You may also need to reset your device completely to wipe away any hidden malware.
You must also avoid installing apps from places outside the Google Play Store and avoid clicking any unverified links from unknown numbers. WhatsApp will never introduce updates for installation outside the Google Play Store.
Lastly, do not share your OTPs and personal information with unknown people, whether on voice calls or text messages.
The Pink WhatsApp scam only targets Android users since Apple does not permit users to download apps from third-party app stores or APK files.
