Hackers have discovered a vulnerability in the Facebook-owned messaging service. It allows them to install spyware, through an infected WhatsApp voice call, enabling them to trawl through calls, texts and other data.
Which phones does it affect?
All phone brands with WhatsApp or WhatsApp Business installed are vulnerable, according to Facebook. That means all of the app’s 1.5bn users are exposed.
Has it affected me?
If you have not received a WhatsApp call from unknown numbers then you are unlikely to have been affected.
It is not yet known just how many people’s phones have been attacked. Several high profile targets, including a UK-based human rights lawyer, have been confirmed however.
What should I do?
Facebook introduced changes to protect WhatsApp users on Monday. Users are strongly advised to manually check for app software updates.
Failing that, uninstalling WhatsApp from your phone will protect you from the attack.
Keeping your phones operating system up to date is also crucial. That’s iOS for iPhone or Android for Samsung Galaxy and some other phone brands.
What about my computer?
Again it is crucial to keep your computer’s software up to date. These updates often contain new security measures previous versions don’t have.
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HeadlineWhatsApp hack – What has happened and what should I do?
Short HeadlineWhatsApp hack - What should I do?
StandfirstThere are several simple measures all users should take
What has happened?
Hackers have discovered a vulnerability in the Facebook-owned messaging service. It allows them to install spyware, through an infected WhatsApp voice call, enabling them to trawl through calls, texts and other data.
Which phones does it affect?
All phone brands with WhatsApp or WhatsApp Business installed are vulnerable, according to Facebook. That means all of the app’s 1.5bn users are exposed.
Has it affected me?
If you have not received a WhatsApp call from unknown numbers then you are unlikely to have been affected.
It is not yet known just how many people’s phones have been attacked. Several high profile targets, including a UK-based human rights lawyer, have been confirmed however.
What should I do?
Facebook introduced changes to protect WhatsApp users on Monday. Users are strongly advised to manually check for app software updates.
Failing that, uninstalling WhatsApp from your phone will protect you from the attack.
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