WhatsApp is the world's most popular instant messaging app, with 1.500 billion monthly active users . Like email and other powerful communication channels, it can be the perfect entry point for attackers to carry out their attacks.
Scams spread through WhatsApp often aim to obtain our personal or banking information.
However, just like computers, mobile phones—regardless of the operating system— can also fall victim to malware that exploits vulnerabilities in older versions. Let's look at the types of threats that exist and how you can detect them.
You can also read: How to Download and Install WhatsApp Plus
What is the WhatsApp virus?
The WhatsApp virus is malware called "Brata." It's a type of Trojan belonging to the Remote Administration Tools (RAT) group. These malicious programs allow the user controlling them to remotely control devices.
The origin of this malware has not yet been determined; in other words, it is unknown who is behind its development. However, the first group of users who complained about the virus on their phones came from Brazil.
The latter was alerted by the computer security company Kasperky Lab. Following an investigation among Brazilian citizens who had the virus, all the characteristics of the malware were revealed.
What does the WhatsApp virus look like?
This is software that, when installed on a mobile device (without the user's consent), sends a "mirror transmission." This is then immediately forwarded to the hackers who created it.
The virus hides in an app that presents itself as a WhatsApp alternative. It has the same brand logo and interface. These hackers not only obtain screenshots of everything the user does on their phone, but also access the microphone and camera.
In other words, cybercriminals can look at a smartphone and listen to everything a person says. This leaves all of the user's important information vulnerable and falling into the hands of WhatsApp virus creators.
From personal photos, private messages to accessing someone's bank details. All of this happens without the user's knowledge, who has no idea that they are being followed and spied on.
How to remove WhatsApp virus?
Although this virus has been reported to Facebook and the company has removed it from the internet, many users still have it on their phones. Therefore, it's important to highlight some of the most recommended methods for permanently removing the WhatsApp virus .
To remove the 'Brata' malware, first uninstall the application where it was installed. Then, install an antivirus program . We recommend Malwarebytes for Android.
This application will ensure that all traces of the infection that spread the malware are removed. It will also recover the components affected by the virus. However, the previous solution does not produce the expected result: a complete cleanup of your device in all cases.
In some cases, if the virus has been present for a long time, a factory reset may be the only solution. This solution should be used only if no other options are available. As the name suggests, it restores absolutely all the data on your mobile device to its original settings.
Other details
This reset can be done in two simple ways. The first is in the device settings, and the second, more hidden, is in the " recovery mode " menu. The latter can be accessed while the phone is turned off.
While it's a good idea to back up your most important files before restoring them, this might not be the best solution, as a WhatsApp virus may have infected some of the files.
How to prevent WhatsApp virus
There are many ways to prevent this and other WhatsApp viruses from entering your smartphone and giving you a headache. Here are some of them:
1. Download WhatsApp directly from Google Play
Just like WhatsApp, all apps that need to be installed on the device must be downloaded from the official Google Play Store . Although there are cases of infected apps on Google Play, the probability of this happening is very low.
2. Always keep your applications updated
The Google Play Store usually notifies you when a new version of one of its apps is available for download. It's advisable not to ignore these notifications , as detected bugs and viruses will be fixed as long as the apps are kept up to date.
3. Only update your WhatsApp version from official websites
If your app version is not the latest and you want to purchase it, it is best to do so directly from the official portal. This will prevent malicious pathogens from entering your smartphone.
4. Pay attention to the messages you receive
You often receive WhatsApp messages from unknown or suspicious phone numbers. So be very careful when opening these messages. Many of them contain promotional messages, "freebies," links to games, and impersonate game organizers. However, these links usually lead to malicious websites or portals.
5. Downloading applications that act as antivirus
Just like with computers, antivirus software is recommended for mobile devices . Although smartphone antivirus software isn't as powerful as PC antivirus, it still gives users a sense of security.
You can also read: 10 Best Apps to Clean Your iPhone
My name is Javier Chirinos and I am passionate about technology. Ever since I can remember, I have been interested in computers and video games, and that passion has turned into a job.
I have been publishing about technology and gadgets on the Internet for over 15 years, especially in mundobytes.com
I am also an expert in online marketing and communication and have knowledge in WordPress development.