Technical

Srinivasa Reddy Kandi: WhatsApp Warns Users After Spyware Hidden in Fake App Targets Hundreds

April, 02, 2026-04:14

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WhatsApp Warns Users After Spyware Hidden in Fake App Targets Hundreds

WhatsApp has alerted nearly 200 users who were deceived into installing a fraudulent version of its messaging app embedded with spyware.

The company has accused Italian spyware firm SIO of developing the malicious iPhone app designed to mimic the official WhatsApp platform. According to WhatsApp, its security team identified the affected users—primarily based in Italy—and took immediate action.

“We proactively detected around 200 users who may have downloaded this unofficial and harmful client,” the company stated. “We logged them out, notified them of potential privacy and security risks, and advised them to delete the fake app and install the official version instead.”

A WhatsApp spokesperson, Margarita Franklin, noted that further details about the impacted users—such as whether they include journalists or civil society members—have not been disclosed at this stage. She emphasized that the company’s main focus is safeguarding those who may have been compromised.

In addition to notifying users, WhatsApp confirmed that it intends to take legal action by issuing a formal demand to the spyware firm, seeking to halt any ongoing malicious activities.

Author: Kandi Srinivasa Reddy, Srinivasa Reddy Kandi, #KandiSrinivasaReddy, #SrinivasaReddyKandi