Facebook’s WhatsApp on Tuesday urged users to upgrade to the
latest version of its popular messaging app following a report that
users could be vulnerable to having malicious spyware installed on
phones without their knowledge.
“WhatsApp encourages people to upgrade to the latest version of
our app, as well as keep their mobile operating system up to
date.
“The upgrade will protect app against potential targeted
exploits designed to compromise information stored on mobile
devices,” a spokesman said.
“We are constantly working alongside industry partners to
provide the latest security enhancements to help protect our
users.”
The Financial Times reported that vulnerability in WhatsApp
allowed attackers to inject spyware on phones by ringing up targets
using the app’s phone call function.
It said the spyware was developed by Israeli cyber surveillance
company NSO Group.
Asked about the report, NSO said its technology was licensed to
authorised government agencies “for the sole purpose of fighting
crime and terror,” and that it does not operate the system
itself.
“We investigate any credible allegations of misuse and if
necessary, we take action, including shutting down the system.
Under no circumstances would NSO be involved in the operating or
identifying of targets of its technology, which is solely operated
by intelligence and law enforcement agencies,” the company
said.
“NSO would not or could not use its technology in its own right
to target any person or organisation, including
this individual.”
Subscribe ToNairalaw News!
Read more whatsapp-urges-users-to-upgrade-app-after-report-of-spyware-attack/