Did you download Hey WhatsApp? Beware of hidden malware; check warning

WhatsApp is one of the most popular instant messaging apps. However, there are several other clone or fake versions of the app available for download. In fact, many people have downloaded one called Hey WhatsApp. However, you should know that these are fake apps and they look absolutely normal. However, if you use them, they can harm you in several ways including stealing your personal details. Will Cathcart, WhatsApp head at Meta Platforms informed about the same via his official Twitter handle.

"Reminder to @WhatsApp users that downloading a fake or modified version of WhatsApp is never a good idea. These apps sound harmless but they may work around WhatsApp privacy and security guarantees. A thread:," Cathcart tweeted. In a series of tweets, he further informed that recently the security team has discovered hidden malware within apps – offered outside of Google Play Store - from a developer called “HeyMods” that included "Hey WhatsApp" and others.

He informed that these apps promised new features but were just a scam to steal personal information stored on people’s phones. WhatsApp head also said that the details have been shared with Google and his team has worked with them to combat these malicious apps. "Google Play Protect on Android can now detect and disable previously downloaded malicious fake versions of WhatsApp. We appreciate the help of Google for their continued work to prevent malicious apps from proliferating on Android devices," one of his tweets read.

He further added, "We’ll of course continue our efforts to detect and block these kinds of apps going forward. We're also taking enforcement action against HeyMods to stop future harm, and will further explore legal options to hold HeyMods and others like them accountable."

He also said that mobile phone malware is a pernicious threat that must be countered and the security community continues to develop new ways to prevent it from spreading. Cathcart asked WhatsApp users if they see their friends or family using a different form of WhatsApp then encourage them to only use WhatsApp from a trusted app store or official website directly at http://WhatsApp.com/dl.