Although WhatsApp is normally considered a very secure messenger, a security flaw was recently discovered that is classified as very critical. This security gap is dangerous because malware could be installed unnoticed on both the user's Android and iOS smartphone. A current update from WhatsApp is intended to counteract this.

Malware risk in WhatsApp video calls

In one rating, the current security vulnerability called “CVE-2022-36934” was classified as very critical: on a scale it received a 9.8 out of 10; It doesn't get much worse than that. The whole thing is so dangerous because it should be possible to install malware on the user's cell phone during a video call and do so completely unnoticed. Malware is a composite term from “Malicious Software”, i.e. malicious software that can unnoticed identify computers.

This makes it possible for cybercriminals to remotely access a device and also execute commands remotely. In the further course, users' private passwords could be found out and, for example, money could be stolen. According to WhatsApp , this is possible on both Android and iOS devices with an old WhatsApp version.

The vulnerability affects WhatsApp for Android before version 2.22.16.2 and for iOS before version 2.22.15.9 . The critical vulnerability was also present in the WhatsApp versions before 2.22.16.12 for Android and before 2.22.16.12  for iOS and also affects the business versions.

Screenshot: WhatsApp Security Advisories
Screenshot: WhatsApp Security Advisories

Unfortunately, the messenger does not reveal exactly where the problem lies. On their website, which draws attention to security information , it only says that an “integer overflow”, i.e. a type of programming error in the old WhatsApp version, “could lead to remote code execution in an established video call”. Messenger also concluded that this is a very critical security vulnerability.

Install new version as soon as possible!

To remedy the situation, WhatsApp itself advises you to urgently install the latest version of the messenger. Malwarebytes website, there is currently no evidence that the vulnerabilities have already been exploited, as they were found and quietly fixed by WhatsApp's internal security team. Nevertheless, all users should make sure that they already have the latest version on their smartphone.

To do this, if you have an iPhone , go to the App Store and tap Updates. When you find WhatsApp, tap the Update next to the app. Your phone should then start installing the update.

If you have an Android smartphone , click on Play Store and then click on the menu button. My apps and games, tap Update next to “WhatsApp Messenger .

It's best to always keep apps up to date

Not only in the case of WhatsApp should you pay attention to updates, but it is generally advisable to always keep apps up to date. Not only because developers and companies continually integrate new functions and improvements into the apps, but also because many security gaps are regularly closed with updates. In particular, apps that you use every day and also those that contain personal information, such as online banking or other social networks, should be updated regularly in order to be easily protected from risks. Simply check the Play Store or App Store occasionally for updates and download them if necessary.

Source:

WhatsApp Security Advisories

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Author: Nick L.


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