WHATSAPP users are being warned to make sure they’re using the real app.
There are loads of WhatsApp “clones” and installing one could put you in danger.
Some of your most personal conversations will happen on WhatsApp.
But it’s possible that when you downloaded the app, you didn’t install the real WhatsApp.
Similarly, you might have installed a “clone” on purpose to enjoy bonus features.
Now WhatsApp is warning against these rogue apps.
Read more on WhatsApp
“Unofficial Whatsapp apps are altered versions of our app, which means they’re developed by third-parties and violate our Terms of Service,” WhatsApp warned
“We don’t support these apps because they put your privacy, security, and safety at risk.
“If you use them, there’s no guarantee your messages or your data like your location or the files you share will be private and secure.”
It’s impossible to guarantee that your messages are safe when using a fake version of WhatsApp.
And you’re breaking WhatsApp terms of service, which could lead to you being banned from the app.
You might be using a fake version of WhatsApp on iPhone or Android.
Thankfully, Google does warn users if you’re downloading a fraudulent WhatsApp app.
“If you’ve received this Play Protect Warning from Google, you’re likely using an unauthorized and unofficial version of WhatsApp,” WhatsApp explained.
“Due to security concerns, Google may disable and uninstall these applications.”
However, don’t rely on this system.
You can follow these links to find the official store pages for WhatsApp:
If you want extra features, a legitimate route is to try the WhatsApp beta.
WhatsApp is constantly designing new features for the app.
Before they go live on the general version of WhatsApp, these changes are tested in a “beta” version of the app.
This is a special WhatsApp that you sign up to, allowing you to trial new features first.
It’s free to join, and will give you instant access to secret features that other people can’t access.
To download WhatsApp beta for your smartphone you need to go to Google Play on your Android and search for WhatsApp.
Scroll down the page until you see “Become a Beta Tester”.
Tap the “I’m In” button and then click “Join” to confirm.
Now all you have to do is wait for the update to the beta version of the app.
Read More on The Sun
Joining the WhatsApp beta on iPhone is more difficult, and has limited capacity.
Follow the official Apple guide here.
Looking for tips and hacks for your phone? Want to find those secret features within social media apps? We have you covered...
Get all the latest WhatsApp, Instagram, Facebook and other tech gadget stories here.
We pay for your stories! Do you have a story for The Sun Online Tech & Science team? Email us at tech@the-sun.co.uk
