WhatsApp.com is a familiar domain; however, a counterfeit version spelled шһатѕарр.com is currently circulating, and it’s not just a harmless knock-off. This malicious URL covertly installs adware on your device. This latest cyber trickery emerges even as the world continues to grapple with the repercussions of WannaCry, the notorious ransomware that recently disrupted digital life across approximately 150 countries.
The faux WhatsApp.com was initially spotted by observant Reddit user, u/yuexist. As they elucidated, the deceitful site prompts you to download a version of WhatsApp in unconventional shades, veering from the trademark green interface. Upon installation, you will receive a request to circulate it amongst your contacts, who will in turn receive a message pronouncing, “I love the new colors for WhatsApp” – accompanied by the counterfeit URL.
The duplicity doesn’t end there. The bogus website then convinces the users to relish the new “colourful” WhatsApp on their desktops, by installing a Chrome extension termed as BlackWhats.
While it may be apparent to some, the multitude of peculiar prompts and hoops to jump through might dissuade them, these kind of scams mostly victimize the less technologically literate. This is reinforced by the staggering figure of over 16,000 users have downloaded the extension, with its current rating count soon to cross 55. However, considering the lack of user feedback, it is highly plausible that these ratings too, are a part of the elaborate scam.
Google is likely to intervene and exterminate the digital parasite soon enough, but until then, tread the digital landscape with due precaution. Be vigilant of the links you click on, especially those that seem dubious or untrustworthy.
At times like these, it is essential to comprehend that not everything that glitters in the digital world is gold, and precaution is the best line of defence against such fraudulent activities.
Paul Balo is the founder of TechBooky and a highly skilled wireless communications professional with a strong background in cloud computing, offering extensive experience in designing, implementing, and managing wireless communication systems.
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