The Spread of WhatsApp Pink

A fake version of the WhatsApp app called “Pink WhatsApp” is currently being distributed to Android users and contains malware, according to data discovered by cybersecurity police in the Indian city of Mumbai.

The fake “WhatsApp Pink” spread by promoting it on the original app through messages claiming to be a new version of a well-known app with a different design, with a download link from suspicious sites and not from the Google Play Store.

Malicious Intent and Modus Operandi

According to tweets released by the Mumbai police via Twitter, the app is just a modified version of WhatsApp, which displays a pink interface, unlike the traditional Android app shape, and also displays annoying ads while using it.

In the background, a fake app installs malware on the victim’s device that allows hackers to access personal data and sensitive information such as photos, messages, and contacts.

Spreading and Targeting Users

The malicious app uses a well-known strategy to spread and target more users by sending attractive messages with a download link to contacts on the victim’s device to encourage them to download the app, thus targeting more victims again.

Protecting Against Malicious Applications

In order to protect against such applications, it is recommended that you do not download any applications or updates to Android devices other than from the official Google Play store.

Notably, Meta, the owner of the WhatsApp app, always emphasizes the need to avoid using unofficial WhatsApp apps, which are apps that are widespread among Android users, and the company describes them as “fake WhatsApp apps developed by third parties,” which indicates that it does not support these applications due to the lack of security measures that you monitor.