Alert call as more become victims of cyber attacks

Internet users in Bahrain have been warned of falling prey to scam messages that use popular social networking sites as a disguise to infiltrate their devices and personal data. This comes amidst increasing reports on messages with links to alleged upgraded versions of popular applications such as WhatsApp and Twitter. The messages, which usually include links to certain malicious websites, have been proven to be traps used by hackers and scammers worldwide.

In a previously published research, British online newspaper the Independent focused on a specific scam that has reportedly tricked millions into downloading malware, by downloading allegedly exclusive versions of WhatsApp (WhatsApp Gold/Plus). The article mentioned that the app’s extra features, which the scammers claim have only previously been available to top celebrities, include the ability to send hundreds of pictures at once, new emojis, enhanced video calling, security features and more customisation options. Other messages that lured users reportedly promised to grant them access to other users’ messages and contacts lists.

However, experts have warned that downloading the programme from the website will eventually infect smartphones with malware, possibly allowing cybercriminals to steal data or track movements and activities. WhatsApp repeatedly warned of such fake replicas of the app, and recently threatened to actually ban users if it detects such unauthorised software on their phones.

“WhatsApp Plus is an application that was not developed by WhatsApp, nor is it authorised by WhatsApp. The developers of WhatsApp Plus have no relationship to WhatsApp, and we do not support WhatsApp Plus. The company warns users that the scam software can pass private information to third parties without the knowledge or authorisation of the user,” the company said in a statement, while instructing users to immediately uninstall such unauthorised apps.