PUTRAJAYA: The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) has advised the public to be extra cautious when receiving invitations to join or download the harmful application called “Pink WhatsApp,” as it poses a serious security risk.
In a statement today, MCMC said the application is falsely advertised to offer better security and privacy features, customised interface, and the ability to transmit larger files than the popular WhatsApp application.
However upon installation, the malicious application can access various items within the user's smartphone such as photos, SMS, and contact lists, posing a serious security risk.
“Users may receive messages and links that appear to be from WhatsApp inviting them to try the new application,” said MCMC as it advised the public not to download and install the application and to immediately delete it if it is already present on their mobile devices.
SPONSORED CONTENT Shell’s Access to Energy helps power lives of isolated communities in Sabah Kota Kinabalu: In 2017, Sabah Shell Petroleum Co Ltd (SSPC) launched Access to Energy (A2E), a Shell Social Investment programme aimed at providing affordable and continuous supply of electricity from renewable sources for communities who live without connection to the electricity grid. Read more All users are advised to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities related to “Pink WhatsApp” to the Aduan MCMC portal or Aduan hotline at 1800-188-030.
MCMC also recommended that the public to only download mobile applications from the official app stores such as Apple App Store, Google Play Store and Huawei App Gallery.
* Follow us on Instagram and join our Telegram and/or WhatsApp channel(s) for the latest news you don't want to miss.
* Do you have access to the Daily Express e-paper and online exclusive news? Check out subscription plans available.