Finance
WhatsApp has long been a hub for fake news and scams. Meta’s app is one of the most popular in the country, with millions of active users. However, because of its popularity, it is an obvious target for scammers to disseminate their deception. A new WhatsApp message has recently gone widespread, in which people are receiving a link to download ‘Pink WhatsApp.’ Scammers are giving this link to a large number of people and telling them to download the software in order to obtain a new design and new features for WhatsApp.
The Mumbai Police Department recently issued a public alert concerning a viral WhatsApp message known as ‘Pink WhatsApp.’ The officials warned consumers in their alert about the latest hoax related with the platform and encouraged them not to click on the link or download the app.
“The news about ‘New Pink Look WhatsApp with extra features’ which is recently doing rounds among the WhatsApp users is a hoax which can lead to hacking of your mobile through malicious software. It is not an uncommon instance to see the fraudsters come up with a variety of new tricks and ways to lure gullible users into falling into their trap to commit cyber frauds. It is for the users to be Aware, Alert, and Attentive to these kinds of frauds and remain safe and secure in the digital world,” reads the advisory.
What is Pink WhatsApp Scam
A false message is circulating on WhatsApp, according to the Mumbai Police. The message offers to provide an update that will modify the color of the platform’s logo. It also pledges to add new features to improve the WhatsApp experience.
However, the police warn that the link is a phishing link that, if visited, targets the user’s phone and steals sensitive information or grants the scammer remote control of the device.
What happens if you click on Pink WhatsApp link
- The Mumbai Police warns that users who click on the fake link could face various risks, such as:
- Unauthorised use of their contact numbers and saved pictures
- Financial losses
- Misuse of their credentials
- Spam attack
- Complete loss of control over their mobile devices.
Notably, The Free Press Journal was the first to report on this issue.
How to be safe from Pink WhatsApp scam
The police further share how WhatsApp users can prevent falling for the viral Pink WhatsApp scam.
- First and foremost, if you have downloaded the fake app, remove it immediately. Uninstall WhatsApp by going to Settings > Apps > WhatsApp (pink logo) and uninstalling it.
- Always be cautious and avoid clicking on links from unfamiliar sources unless you have verified their legitimacy.
- Apps should only be installed or updated via the official Google Play Store or iOS App Store, or from trustworthy sources.
- Without proper identification or verification, do not forward any links or messages to others.
- Avoid exchanging your personal or financial information, such as login credentials, passwords, credit or debit card numbers, and similar information, with anybody online, as this information might be exploited.
- Stay informed and cautious about cybercriminals’ actions by staying up to speed with the latest news and updates to defend yourself from their attempts at fraud.
Source:IT
