Beware, Android smartphone users! GB WhatsApp may contain malware
What's the story
India is one of the largest markets to be exploited by Android malware, says a new report by internet security firm ESET.
It has also named India among the countries with the most Android Trojan malware detections, even as such threats continue to rise by 9.5% in the second half of 2022.
Moreover, GB WhatsApp is believed to be a major suspect behind this.
Context
Why does this story matter?
An app's modified APK file contains some additional features, which in turn compel Android smartphone users to download these versions from platforms other than the Google Play Store. However, doing so invites serious issues.
Individuals are advised not to go for external APK files. Putting a device's privacy at risk just for the sake of some fancy features should be avoided.
Details
What is GB WhatsApp?
The GB WhatsApp app is a tweaked version of the original WhatsApp. It promises more features in addition to those on the standard application.
The app is not available on the Google Play Store. Therefore, users download its APK file from external sources and load it on their devices.
Once the app gets installed, the loaded files are easily altered with malicious content.
Method
How are Android smartphones affected?
Once an application from an external source is installed on the smartphone, the malicious codes start operating in the background.
Due to their stealthy operation, users might not be able to recognize them for a while. Trojan malware is one such example.
Such malware may not affect the device's daily performance. However, they continue to steal data till the users track them down.
Steps
How to safeguard your device from malware?
Never download or install apps from sources other than Google Play Store.
Do not opt for a modified version of an application. Stick with the official app unless the modified one has been released by the developer itself.
In case your device gets infected with malware, turn off the internet right away and perform a full factory reset on the phone.