WhatsApp Pink Scam: Mumbai Police issues red alert

New Delhi: Mumbai Police have issued a red alert for Android users who have downloaded pink-themed WhatsApp.

A link that claims to be the official WhatsApp in pink with new features has been forwarded and received by many WhatsApp users across the Country.

The fact is that it is a malicious version of the app that can steal your data like banking details, OTPs, photos, and contacts.

It is also reported that the app was found to be a fraud in 2021 but is still being forwarded.

In a Twitter post, the Mumbai Police said, "WHATSAPP PINK - A Red Alert for Android Users", along with a picture explaining the consequences as well as the measures to protect yourself from the scam.

"The news about 'New Pink Look WhatsApp with extra features' which is recently doing rounds among WhatsApp users is a hoax which can lead to hacking of your mobile through malicious software," the picture reads.

"It is not an uncommon instance, to see the fraudsters come up with a variety of new tricks and ways to lure gullible users into falling into their trap to commit cyber frauds. It is for the users to be Aware, Alert, and Attentive to these kinds of frauds and remain safe and secure in the digital world."

Downloading WhatsApp in Pink can lead to misuse of contact numbers and pictures saved on mobile phones, financial loss, misuse of your credentials, spam messages, and more.

People are advised to immediately uninstall the fake app downloaded on their mobile by navigating to settings> apps> WhatsApp (pink logo) and uninstall it.

It is also advised to never click on links received from unknown sources without proper verification or authentication, and should always install applications through the official app store of Google or iOS or a legitimate website.

With inputs from IANS