The digital world is rife with innovative opportunities, but it’s also a playground for cybercriminals. One such nefarious activity came to light when a new scam started making rounds in the form of a pink-themed WhatsApp variant, aptly called ‘WhatsApp Pink’. Unveiled by internet security researcher Rajshekhar Rajaharia in April 2021 and recently highlighted by the Mumbai Police Cyber Crime Wing, this scam has conned unsuspecting users into installing a malicious application masquerading as a stylish WhatsApp theme.
How the Scam Works
WhatsApp Pink entices users with an appealing pink interface, masquerading as a fun variant of the popular messaging app, WhatsApp. However, once installed, it can take control of your device, potentially accessing personal information, and may even hide itself from the list of installed apps.
The Uninstallation Process
Should you fall prey to the WhatsApp Pink scam, immediate action is necessary. To uninstall the app, navigate to the ‘Apps’ section of your phone settings, locate ‘WhatsApp Pink’ with the pink logo, and hit the uninstall button. Be mindful that some malicious apps may not carry a name in the app list, so ensure you remove these as well. Further, ensure to unlink all suspicious devices from the ‘Linked Devices’ section in WhatsApp. This step is crucial because the scam could have linked your account to other devices, allowing unauthorized access to your messages.
Staying Safe: Prevention is Better than Cure
Avoid falling into the trap of such scams by adhering to safe digital practices. Always download and install apps from trusted sources, such as the Google Play Store for Android users. iPhone users are somewhat safer in this regard, as Apple does not allow installations from unknown sources.Pay particular attention to messages labeled ‘Forwarded’ in WhatsApp. This can help ascertain whether the message is genuinely from your contact or forwarded from an unknown source. Remember, refrain from installing apps from unknown websites or APKs sent by unknown contacts. Your cybersecurity is only as strong as your weakest link, and in most cases, it’s the human factor that cybercriminals exploit. Stay informed, stay alert, and stay safe in the digital world.
The WhatsApp Pink Scam serves as a reminder that while the digital landscape offers many conveniences, it’s also fraught with potential dangers. Always be cautious when installing new apps, especially those not found in official app stores. Your digital safety is in your hands, so handle it with care.
