WhatsApp clones are malware in disguise — here’s how to stay safe

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Be careful what messaging apps you install

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(Image credit: Anadolu Agency / Getty Images)

You have to be careful about which apps you install, because you never know what could be a dangerous knockoff trying to steal your data. One prime example of this has been revealed by security researchers at Kaspersky, which has revealed two fake WhatsApp Android apps that aim to steal user access keys.

The two apps are called “YoWhatsApp” and “WhatsApp Plus," and are designed to offer special features in addition to the usual suite of WhatsApp tools. The Kaspersky report (via Bleeping Computer) notes that YoWhatsApp offers a customizable interface and individual chat room blocks.

Other dangers include account takeover and impersonation, both of which could be used to spread malware or scams to your contacts — should the attackers feel the urge.

Bleeping Computer notes that not all WhatsApp clones are deliberately malicious. That said, it's always safest to avoid these sorts of cloned apps, and stick to the official versions that aren’t trying to steal from you. Users with knock-off apps installed should also uninstall them as soon as they can.

Tom Pritchard
Tom Pritchard
UK Phones Editor

Tom is the Tom's Guide's UK Phones Editor, tackling the latest smartphone news and vocally expressing his opinions about upcoming features or changes. It's long way from his days as editor of Gizmodo UK, when pretty much everything was on the table. He’s usually found trying to squeeze another giant Lego set onto the shelf, draining very large cups of coffee, or complaining about how terrible his Smart TV is.