Meta has introduced new safety tools on WhatsApp to protect users from scams and account takeovers. One major feature now alerts people if someone suspicious tries to remotely link their account to another device. But even as these protections improve, hackers are finding new tricks. Recently, Meta warned about a fake WhatsApp app being used to spy on users mainly in Italy. Around 200 users targeted by spy app According to reports, nearly 200 Android and iPhone users downloaded the fake app and were affected. Meta said it has already disconnected the compromised accounts and informed victims about possible privacy risks. The fake app was reportedly created by Asigint, a company linked to Italy’s Sio Spa Group. Hackers used social engineering techniques—tricking users into thinking the app was the official WhatsApp version. Their goal may have been to secretly access users’ devices and accounts. Meta is also planning to send a formal warning asking the company behind the spyware to stop such activities. Official WhatsApp app is still safe
Meta clarified that the spyware did not exploit any weakness in the real WhatsApp app. The company confirmed there was no breach of its infrastructure or encryption system. Users are strongly advised to download WhatsApp only from trusted platforms like official app stores. Why the fake app is dangerous Unlike the original WhatsApp, the fake version does not support end-to-end encryption. This means hackers could: Such access creates serious privacy risks. Sideloading apps comes with extra risks In 2024, Apple allowed users in 27 EU countries to install apps from outside its App Store to follow new competition rules. Meanwhile, Google already allowed sideloading on Android devices globally. While this gives users more freedom, it also increases the chance of downloading fake or unsafe apps if they are not careful. Tip: Always install apps from official stores to stay protected.
