YoWhatsApp, the temptation in the form of an “improved” WhatsApp that you should not fall for

Although we use it daily and practically rely on it, there are many things we would like WhatsApp to be able to do, and many of the functions we see in other apps like Telegram, Messenger or Signal, and that is what can drive a person sometimes To choose the seemingly improved versions of the original WhatsApp like WhatsApp Plus or the one we’re dealing with today: YoWhatsApp, an improved but dangerous version.

YoWhatsApp!

And it’s very tempting to have a version of WhatsApp that can do exclusive things that the original app can’t. This is what YoWhatsApp promises, Full-functional modification of the messaging app allows you to customize the interface, block access to chats individually, etc. In fact, it uses the same permissions as the standard WhatsApp app and is promoted through ads on popular Android apps like Snaptube and Vidmate.

But in return for some additional functionality, when you use one of these unwanted versions of WhatsApp, you risk having your data or even your money stolen. Kaspersky cybersecurity experts have discovered that one version of YoWhatsApp hides a powerful Trojan known as Triad. Kaspersky has been investigating the Triad Trojan hidden inside the modified versions of WhatsApp since last year, and discovered that YoWhatsApp v2.22.11.75 hijacks WhatsApp passwords, allowing the cybercriminals behind Triada to take control of users’ accounts.

trojan triad

Kaspersky claims that these keys can be used in open source utilities to connect and perform actions as a user without the actual client, since they already have their own access keys. This way, using YoWhatsApp, they can steal your WhatsApp account and other apps, and they can even impersonate you, because your contacts won’t know it’s not you.

Just like the real WhatsApp for Android, lThe malicious app requests permissions, such as SMS access, Which is also given to the Triad Trojan that is included in the app. Kaspersky claims that the Trojan can abuse these permissions to enroll victims to obtain premium subscriptions without their knowledge and generate revenue for distributors.

Kaspersky Snaptube reported thatCybercriminals promote malicious apps through their advertising systemTherefore, this distribution channel should be closed soon.

WhatsApp Plus, YoWhatsApp and the company

This October, Meta, owner of Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp, has filed a lawsuit against several Chinese companies operating such as HeyMods, Highlight Mobi and HeyWhatsApp To develop “unofficial” WhatsApp applications that have stolen more than a million WhatsApp accounts. And while all unofficial WhatsApp mods are malicious, Kaspersky’s advice is that “Avoid them completely […] If you want to reduce the chances of malware being installed on your device.

In this case, apps that promote malicious versions of WhatsApp They can only be downloaded as APK files outside the Google Play Store, It is also a practice that should be avoided. Triada can use these keys to send malicious spam like a stolen account, while taking advantage of the people you trust in your small circle of friends and family.

Therefore, beware of direct messages from contacts that promote programs or ask you to click on unusual links. When you receive these types of messages, please contact the sender directly to confirm that they actually sent you the text.