WhatsApp, one of the UAE most used social messaging services, has warned users against clicking and downloading a fake update which has been circulating once again called “WhatsApp Gold” as well as a video laden with virus called ‘martinelli’ that hacks your phone once you open it.
A report from standard.co.uk states that the message will contain a link that will lure people into downloading “WhatsApp Gold” but in reality – they will be downloading a malware on their phones.
The same is true for Martinelli as the video will trigger a series of programs that will leave your phone vulnerable to hacks.
A WhatsApp message has since been making the rounds warning users saying: “Today the radio was talking about Whatsapp Gold and it’s true. There is a video that will be launched tomorrow in Whatsapp and is called Martinelli, do not open it. Goes into your phone and nothing you do will fix it. Spread the word if you know someone. If you receive a message to update Whatsapp Gold, do not open it! They just announced that the virus is serious. Send it to everyone.”
While “WhatsApp Gold” and the “Martinelli” viruses initially came out in 2016 and 2017 respectively, the viruses have resurfaced a few days following the New Year of 2019.
Netizens are advised to ignore the message and delete it immediately.
