Skip to main content

WhatsApp exploit allowed targeted surveillance of Android users

A recent exploit discovered within WhatsApp messenger has found that hackers could install surveillance software remotely on devices running the non-patched app.

WhatsApp, owned by Facebook, has said that the exploit was used to target a “select number” of users, and was conducted by “an advanced cyber actor”. It is believed that this exploit was developed by Israeli security firm NSO Group according to the Financial Times (via BBC).

A fix was quick to roll out, which was released on Friday. WhatsApp execs have been quick to suggest that users install the latest app build via on their preferred device App Store.

The surveillance software could be remotely installed by using the WhatsApp VOIP calling option. Attackers were able to install any software simply by calling a potential victims’ phone even if the potential victim did not pick up the call or rejected it.

What seems more menacing is that this call would not appear within the WhatsApp call log, meaning the users would be completely unaware of any potential attack. It is not immediately clear how many devices were affected or infected via this exploit.

Affected Versions: The issue affects WhatsApp for Android prior to v2.19.134, WhatsApp Business for Android prior to v2.19.44, WhatsApp for iOS prior to v2.19.51, WhatsApp Business for iOS prior to v2.19.51, WhatsApp for Windows Phone prior to v2.18.348, and WhatsApp for Tizen prior to v2.18.15.

Facebook has since confirmed the attack in a security notice posted on their dedicated Security sub-domain. It states that those running builds prior to v2.19.134 on Android and those prior to v2.19.51 on iOS should update their apps immediately.

With WhatsApp promoting itself as a secure messaging platform and offering end-to-end encryption for private messages, this is a major blow. If you are running an older build it is important to update as soon as possible.

More on WhatsApp:

FTC: We use income earning auto affiliate links. More.

You’re reading 9to5Google — experts who break news about Google and its surrounding ecosystem, day after day. Be sure to check out our homepage for all the latest news, and follow 9to5Google on Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn to stay in the loop. Don’t know where to start? Check out our exclusive stories, reviews, how-tos, and subscribe to our YouTube channel

Check out 9to5Google on YouTube for more news:

Comments

Author

Avatar for Damien Wilde Damien Wilde

Damien is a UK-based video producer for 9to5Google. Find him on Twitter: @iamdamienwilde. Email: damien@9to5mac.com