WhatsApp has taken action to protect approximately 200 users who unknowingly installed a malicious fake version of the messaging app that included spyware. The counterfeit app, reportedly created by Italian spyware maker SIO, was identified by WhatsApp’s security team, leading to the notification of affected users, primarily in Italy. These users were logged out, informed of the risks to their privacy and security, and advised to uninstall the unofficial app and switch to the official WhatsApp version.
In a statement, WhatsApp spokesperson Margarita Franklin emphasized the company’s commitment to safeguarding users who fell victim to the fake iOS app. The company intends to issue a formal legal demand to halt any further malicious activities by the spyware firm responsible for the unauthorized app.
Reports from Italian sources initially brought attention to this incident, shedding light on SIO’s history of developing spyware-infected apps, including counterfeit versions of WhatsApp and fraudulent customer support tools. The spyware, known as Spyrtacus, was detected within the code of these deceptive applications.
Source: TechCrunch