MCMC: Be aware of malicious ‘Pink WhatsApp’ application
The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) has issued a warning against downloading the malicious ‘Pink WhatsApp’ application.
The notice, which was released on the MCMC official Twitter account, warned that users may receive messages and links inviting them to try the new application. Pink WhatsApp is said to falsely advertise better features than WhatsApp, including better security and privacy features, customizable interface, and ability to send larger files.
However, upon downloading, Pink WhatsApp will gain access to various items on your phone, such as photos, SMSes, and your contact list; thus posing a heavy security risk to the user.
If you have downloaded Pink WhatsApp, the MCMC advises to immediately remove the app from your phone.
Scammers oftentimes trick victims into downloading illegitimate applications that will compromise your device. These applications tend to contain spywares that will give the scammers full access to sensitive information.
In fact, it was only recently that a ‘wedding invitation scam’ was making rounds on WhatsApp, where Malaysians were deceived into downloading a spyware disguised as a wedding card.
As such, it is advisable to only download applications from official app stores such as Apple App Store, Google Play Store, and Huawei App Gallery. Any invitation to download applications via a link sent on chat apps should be scrutinized heavily or disregarded altogether.
If you have been affected by Pink WhatsApp, or have encountered any suspicious activities related to the app, you can file a report to the Aduan MCMC portal, or contact the Aduan hotline at: 1800-188-030.
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