WhatsApp urges users to upgrade app after report of spyware attack
App discovered a vulnerability that allowed attackers to install malicious code
Jerusalem, May 14: Facebook’s WhatsApp today urged its 1.5 billion users to upgrade to the latest version of its popular messaging app as the team discovered a vulnerability that allowed attackers to install malicious code on iPhones and Android phones by ringing up a target device.
It is believed that Israeli firm NSO is allegedly behind the technology, as researchers found a similar digital footprint to known tools from the company.
"WhatsApp encourages people to upgrade to the latest version of our app, as well as keep their mobile operating system up to date, to protect against potential targeted exploits designed to compromise information stored on mobile devices," a spokesman said.
"We are constantly working alongside industry partners to provide the latest security enhancements to help protect our users."
The firm is said to have alerted officials at the US Department of Justice after discovering the vulnerability in early May.