WhatsApp Virus Alert! Do not download unverified documents received over WhatsApp
Central security services in India have issued a high alert advisory against two malicious files that are circulating on WhatsApp. These files are loaded with viruses that can steal sensitive personal and banking information stored in the victim’s phone.
Who is the prime target?
The malicious files are in the guise of Microsoft Excel or PDF file. They carry the names of NDA (National Defence Academy) and NIA (National Investigation Agency) which indicates that personnel in defence, paramilitary, and police forces could be the primary target group. Having said that, anyone who receives these files can be a target.
Watch out for files with these names
According to the advisory, these two files go by the names “NDA-ranked-8th-toughest-College-in-the-world-to-get-into.xls” and “NIA-selection-order-.xls”.
What happens when these files are opened?
Opening these files will execute the virus in the phone which will then be able to access personal data like login credentials, banking passwords, and PIN codes.
What should you do?
• Do not click on file attachments received on WhatsApp from unknown numbers. If it is from a known sender, verify what’s the document about.
• Exercise caution before clicking on links (especially those that talk about unbelievable offers) received on WhatsApp even if the sender is someone you know.
• Never click on links on messages to access online banking or shopping portals.
• Install an antivirus app that can block harmful apps and viruses from getting installed on your phone.
If you think this post is helpful, then share it with your friends. Stay safe!
Sources:
https://www.ibtimes.co.in/whatsapp-2-virus-files-being-spread-through-messages-that-can-hack-phone-details-710595
https://www.ptinews.com/news/8238982_Defence–security-forces-alerted-against-Whatsapp-virus.html
20 Comments
Mr Rajiv,
First of all I would like to wish you a prosperous year ahead, may you have a blessed 2017. Coming to the article I would say that it was both informative and well written. As we are moving towards digitization it is important for all of us to know what are the things to do and not to do as well. Your article has done exactly that. I hope you continue to educate us with regard to the existing problems which may make their way silently into our mobile devices and how to stay alert and avoid them. Looking forward to your next article…
Regards,
Kalpa
nice information
thank you son rajib i am 70 now and learning the new technology of what asap and mobile operations
pl keep me posted regularly
thanks again
Thank you
Thank You for the important Msg
sir, good news for us.
bioethics
Thanking you for post this valuable article to aware the users and save the secret data security. This information is very much useful for all of users, they are always in transaction over the phone and also internet.
Nice
It is the best antyvirus
Very important information..
Thank You for the information. it is important for all.
thanks for such good information.
Thanks sir for your informations.
Thanks for the information. It was extremely vital.
Very important information
thank you for the first time quickheal
Thank you
Give me way to protect my whatsapp from viruses
Thanks