Facebook’s popular messenger service Whatsapp has left more than 200 million users at risk of hacking, after a bug infiltrated the system.
The bug, which allowed hackers to install malware on people’s computers, has been fixed since earlier this morning, but security company CheckPoint has warned that millions of users’ machines are likely infected.
The bug concentrated on people using Whatsapp through its web app – so if you keep your social chat online you might want to start running scans.
The hackers simply tracked down users’ mobile numbers and shared ‘business cards’ via the web app – which once was opened started downloading malware onto the person’s machine.
The flaw allows hackers to distribute malware, including ransomware, which demands victims pay a fee to regain access to their files.
Due to the nature of Whatsapp as a social networking site, security specialist Mark James told BBC:
“Bearing in mind that WhatsApp is a cross-platform mobile messaging app, the chances of you opening a vCard sent to you is quite high.
“Once opened it could attempt to download and infect your system with ransomware.”
Not sure if you’ve been affected?
Run a scan on your computer and be sure to delete any files of a sensitive nature (including finances or personal information) from your laptop.
H/T BBC
