We recently come across some news around WhatsApp Pink. No this isn't some silly prank promising to magically turn WhatsApp pink if you forward X messages to X people. WhatsApp Pink is a new virus and according to news reports, it can be quite dangerous. Here is what we know and what you can do to protect yourself and your device:
It uses the usual modus operandi – want this new pink theme along with these new/ additional features? If so click this link. The message typically claims to offer access to the new official WhatsApp pink theme rather than the traditional green theme that we are used to seeming. A person will receive such a message and out of curiosity, they would click on the link. Some have even forwarded the link to others (because mindless forwarding is just something that people do, either because they don’t know about the dangers or don’t care).
The message consists of a link to an APK download along with a picture of what WhatsApp would look like with a pink theme to further pique one's curiosity. Users typically go to the link and download the supposed new theme. This of course will not turn WhatsApp pink or offer access to some new theme. What it will do, however, is grant access to hackers to one's device. It has been reported that this enables the hackers to lock the user out of the WhatsApp app or in some cases to lock them out of their own phone or device altogether.
Some reports also claim that the malware could gain access to a person’s photos, contacts, text messages, net banking passwords and other sensitive information. This could give hackers access to financial transactions and more while leaving a person locked out of their own device.
Firstly of course one should remember never to click on this kind of unknown link. This is a good rule of thumb to follow for everything you do on the internet. Secondly, if it looks interesting but you're not sure what it is, do a simple Google search. If is it something fishy, it would most likely have been reported on a news site or tech blog etc. If it’s something legit, this would have been announced via some authentic source. Either way, you will get some clarity.
As for forwarding something, apply the T.H.I.N.K. test: is it true, helpful, inspiring, necessary and kind? A link such as WhatsApp Pink would obviously not pass the test, and should most certainly not be forwarded. The scourge of fake news has very real consequences – let’s not add to this by forwarding unreliable, fake or downright dangerous links or content. Remember even if it doesn’t harm you, it could harm someone else.
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