These are the 3 ways your WhatsApp messages can be 'hacked', warn researchers
Robin Sinha | Gadgets Now | Aug 10, 2018, 07:00AM IST
WhatsApp recently took some steps to curb the spread of fake news or misinformation on its platform by introducing the ‘forwarded’ label and putting limits to the forwarded messages. But it looks like researchers at Checkpoint have found a loophole that not just lets a hacker read your messages but even worse – manipulate them.
“In a disturbing revelation, Check Point researchers have discovered a vulnerability in WhatsApp that allows a threat actor to intercept and manipulate messages sent by those in a group or private conversation. By doing so, attackers can put themselves in a position of immense power to not only steer potential evidence in their favour, but also create and spread misinformation,” said the website.
The researchers say that there could be three possible attacks using the loophole:
-They can change the reply from a user.
-Quote a reply to a group conversation, making it appear that the message came from someone who is a part of the group.
-Send a message to a user showing it as a part of a group conversation but which in fact is a private conversation.
The website adds that Checkpoint researchers have disclosed the issue to WhatsApp already. WhatsApp however, has not yet mentioned any solution or have addressed the issue in a public statement.
On a related note, WhatsApp recently rolled out a “Digital Literacy” to educate users on fake news. It is also working with fact-checking firms and news companies to fight fake news. It has also given some special authority to the group admins. They can decide and even restrict other members from sending texts to a particular group. It is also possible to demote other group admins. Feature to prevent users from adding others back into groups which they left is also possible.
“In a disturbing revelation, Check Point researchers have discovered a vulnerability in WhatsApp that allows a threat actor to intercept and manipulate messages sent by those in a group or private conversation. By doing so, attackers can put themselves in a position of immense power to not only steer potential evidence in their favour, but also create and spread misinformation,” said the website.
The researchers say that there could be three possible attacks using the loophole:
-They can change the reply from a user.
-Quote a reply to a group conversation, making it appear that the message came from someone who is a part of the group.
-Send a message to a user showing it as a part of a group conversation but which in fact is a private conversation.
The website adds that Checkpoint researchers have disclosed the issue to WhatsApp already. WhatsApp however, has not yet mentioned any solution or have addressed the issue in a public statement.
On a related note, WhatsApp recently rolled out a “Digital Literacy” to educate users on fake news. It is also working with fact-checking firms and news companies to fight fake news. It has also given some special authority to the group admins. They can decide and even restrict other members from sending texts to a particular group. It is also possible to demote other group admins. Feature to prevent users from adding others back into groups which they left is also possible.
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