'Beware of Pink WhatsApp scam' say K'taka cops

NT Correspondent

Bengaluru: The Karnataka Police, who have been actively issuing cyber scam alerts on social media, has strictly warned the citizens regarding a fraudulent message offering a free application to help users change their WhatsApp look along with new features in the state.

"The warning extends to the possibility of hackers compromising user data on Android mobiles or attempting Android mobile hacks under the guise of attracting users with the appealing pinkthemed WhatsApp Apk," a senior official from the state police said.

For a few months, a viral message has been circulating in the WhatsApp groups that asks the users to download a new version of Whatsapp called the 'Pink WhatsApp.'

Mentioning that a message of "New Pink Look WhatsApp with extra features" is currently making rounds, the department called it a hoax, stating that it can lead to hacking of people's mobile phones through malicious software.

"It is not an uncommon instance to see 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," the official added.

In case anyone falls victim to any form of cyber fraud, Karnataka Police advised the people to call 1930 for assistance.

What is 'Pink WhatsApp' scam?

Users are given a link to download a pink version of WhatsApp with claims that the update will help them change the colour of the logo and activate new features.

However, after downloading the phishing link, it might result in users losing control over their devices and their personal data like pictures, passwords, OTPs, and contacts, with these details getting exposed to fraudsters.

How to stay safe from the scam?

According to the police, users need to avoid any sort of fake messages or links offering to download Pink WhatsApp.

In case, anyone has already installed the app, they need to uninstall it immediately and also refrain from sharing or forwarding the links or messages to others.