The Pink WhatsApp scam has been duping numerous people across Southeast Asia. Consequently, the Malaysian and Indian authorities have warned people not to download the fake app. It promises enhanced features but destroys devices and steals personal data.
Nowadays, more people use the internet, encouraging more malicious individuals to commit online crimes. In response, we must become vigilant in spotting and reporting such frauds. As a result, we can protect ourselves from identity theft and data breaches.
This article will discuss the Pink WhatsApp scam. I will explain how to remove the app and avoid downloading it. Contrary to popular belief, deleting it does not guarantee you’ve eliminated it from your phone. Later, I will provide more information about the initial warnings for this fake app.
How to remove Pink WhatsApp
Photo Credit: sea.mashable.com
You can typically remove mobile apps by holding your finger on them and tapping the Uninstall button. However, fake apps can remain on your smartphone after this process.
Indian news firm WION explains users must remove all devices from “WhatsApp’s Linked Devices section.” Cybersecurity researcher Rajshekhar Rajaharia says the app can hide from the list of installed apps. Find and remove the app with these steps:
- Open your phone’s Settings app.
- Next, head to the Apps section.
- Look for WhatsApp Pink, which has a pink logo.
- Afterward, tap the Uninstall button.
Sometimes, you might see the fake app’s logo, not its name. Nevertheless, uninstall every instance of that malicious app. Otherwise, it may continue to harm your device and data.
How to avoid downloading WhatsApp Pink
Photo Credit: beebom.com
Android users must only download and install apps from the Google Play Store. If you want upgrades, the official mobile app updates automatically.
Apple users don’t have this problem because they can only get apps from the strictly-curated App Store. Nonetheless, people should follow these steps from Mashable to avoid mobile app scams:
- Avoid suspicious links for downloading apps.
- Update the official WhatsApp app with Google Play or App Store.
- Also, inform friends and family about the Pink WhatsApp scam to protect them against it. Eventually, the scam will run out of victims, ending it.
Who warned about Pink WhatsApp?
Indian authorities first exposed the WhatsApp Pink Scam in April 2021, according to WION News. However, it seems the scheme continues, prompting the Mumbai Police Cyber Crime Wing to tweet a warning:
“The news about ‘New Pink Look WhatsApp with extra features, which is recently doing rounds among WhatsApp users, is a hoax that can lead to hacking of your mobile through malicious software.”
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“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 fraud. 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 translated advisory said.
Channel News Asia also shared a similar advisory from the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission. Also, the MCMC explained WhatsApp pink fill a victim’s device with numerous ads, causing them to lose control of their phone.
The scammers may also use the fake app to collect personal information like one-time passwords and contacts. Also, the official WhatsApp help center may temporarily or permanently ban user accounts that use unofficial third-party apps.
Conclusion
The Pink WhatsApp app promises enhanced features to encourage people to download and install it. Then, it will bombard their phone with nonstop ads, disabling the device.
Worse, the fraudulent app takes personal information like OTP codes and contacts. In response, everyone should avoid downloading and installing this app.
Use the tips above to delete WhatsApp Pink immediately. Also, learn more about the latest tips and trends in cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, apps, and more at Inquirer Tech.
Frequently asked questions about Pink WhatsApp
Is WhatsApp Pink real?
WhatsApp Pink is a real fake app that has been circulating in various Southeast Asian countries. India and Malaysia have warned the public not to download and install the app. Follow these advisories to keep your personal information safe. Also, inform your friends and family to protect them, too.
Should I download WhatsApp Pink?
You should not download and install WhatsApp Pink under any circumstances. Do not touch links to this fake app; only use the official messaging program. Otherwise, this fake can destroy your smartphone and extract sensitive information like contacts and OTP codes.
How do I get rid of the Pink WhatsApp virus?
You cannot remove WhatsApp Pink through conventional means. Instead, you must open the list of your installed apps and remove the fake. It often appears with the name “Whatapp Pink,” while sometimes it only shows the Pink logo. Nevertheless, remove all instances of this fake app to keep your phone safe.
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