WhatsApp users warned over hacking, urged to update

Reports that spy agencies are using a malicious video to hack people’s WhatsApp accounts has emerged.

On Wednesday, The Independent urged users to update the app to the latest version.

They quoted India’s Computer Emergency Response Team that issued a warning over a malicious video allegedly intended to remotely exploit WhatsApp accounts.

According to the British newspaper, the video allows hackers to access people’s messages when they share the MP4 file with their contacts.

The report said the bug had been fixed earlier this week but anyone without an updated WhatsApp account is apparently still at risk.

Though WhatsApp confirmed the warning, the company refuted claims linking the hacking attempts to a shared video file.

“….these users were instead targeted with spyware developed by controversial Israeli technology firm NSO Group,” The Independent quoted a spokesperson.

“We make public reports on potential issues we have fixed consistent with industry best practices. In this instance, there is no reason to believe that users were impacted.”

The British newspaper further reported that earlier this month, 1,400 people around the world were targeted.

They received an alarming message alleging that their WhatsApp account could have been compromised.