The most dangerous WhatsApp message

WhatsApp Gold message is one of the major hoax messages circulated over WhatsApp.

It has been rounding the platform since 2016, but now the hoax is circulating once again to create panic among users.

WhatsApp Gold or WhatsApp Plus is a scam message. The message has different variants. Don’t fall prey to it.

Here are some important things to know about WhatsApp Gold or WhatsApp Plus message:

• The hoax message asks the users to download ‘an update’ for the messaging app. It says that you will get access to some hidden premium features by the update. But, it is not an update in reality, it is malware.
• If you download it, a lot of malware would be installed on your smartphone and put your personal data at risk.
• More than 200 million WhatsApp users are there in the country. Hence, the message could have the risk of huge volumes of personal data being compromised.
• The message comes in the form of a video message.
• The upgrade also claims to provide various new features like video chats, sending 100 pictures at once and the ability to delete sent messages at any time.
• It prompts you to click on the link to download the update.
• Clicking on it infects your smartphone with many viruses.
• The hoax message normally comes with “Forwarded” tag, without any specific source or legitimacy.
• Another version of WhatsApp Gold message states that users should not open the video named Martinelli as it would hack their phones. Simply delete such messages.
• Some messages talk about the subscription. WhatsApp is a free messaging app. There is no paid subscription for it. Any messages related to subscription might be a phishing attempt. Hence, don’t click on links.
• Don’t click on the links of invitations to third party fake WhatsApp versions. Several fake apps are on Google Play Store. So, beware of them and download only verified apps.
• Never download any content including images or GIF from unknown senders. Stalkers can guess your location using those.

Photo by Christian Wiediger on Unsplash (Free for commercial use)

Image Reference: https://unsplash.com/photos/ZYLmudR28SA