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WhatsApp Web

If you use WhatsApp on your computer, you should update it as soon as you get the chance

A security bug in the service could put more than 200 million users at risk.

WHATSAPP WEB USERS are encouraged to make sure their app is up to date after a security bug was found in its desktop site.

The flaw, which only affects the web version of WhatsApp, would allow someone to distribute malware or ransomware by sending over a contact number.

According to security firm Check Point, the flaw originates from the way WhatsApp Web handles contacts sent in the vCard (virtual card) format. A hacker only needs to know a user’s mobile number and send them a vCard that looks real.

Once it’s opened, it could distribute malicious code which could access personal info or hold your device to ransom.

Check Point estimates that at least 200 million people use WhatsApp web. The desktop site is a mirror of the app, allowing for users to read, message and send multimedia files to individuals and groups.

The discovery was shared with WhatsApp near the end of August and it issued a patch shortly after.

To make sure WhatsApp Web is up to date, log into the service and check the space above the search bar. An option to update will be displayed here (if you haven’t updated already and the process will only take a few seconds to complete.

WhatsApp Web WhatsApp Web WhatsApp Web

WhatsApp web is available for most platforms including iOS, Android, Windows Phone, Nokia and Blackberry. It recently announced that the service now has more than 900 million monthly active users.

Read: There’s a hidden feature in Android notifications that you might not know about >

Read: Here’s another reminder not to download porn apps from unfamiliar sites >

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8 Comments
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute John S
    Favourite John S
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    Sep 9th 2015, 3:54 PM

    I havemt seen any update thing on my desktop?

    32
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute little jim
    Favourite little jim
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    Sep 9th 2015, 4:18 PM

    Might have fallen off, check underneath.

    158
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Ronan Stokes
    Favourite Ronan Stokes
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    Sep 9th 2015, 9:21 PM

    did you check in the cup holder?

    33
    See 3 more replies ▾
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Scorpionvenomm
    Favourite Scorpionvenomm
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    Sep 9th 2015, 9:26 PM

    Lol lol

    10
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Eóin McAnaspie
    Favourite Eóin McAnaspie
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    Sep 9th 2015, 11:03 PM

    See, this is why I ALWAYS glue mine onto the desktop.

    6
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Biscuits Patinkin
    Favourite Biscuits Patinkin
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    Sep 10th 2015, 2:34 PM

    It might be on your desktop but just very very VERY small. Get a magnifying glass.

    1
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Keith Faherty
    Favourite Keith Faherty
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    Sep 10th 2015, 12:03 AM

    Fraudsters are always getting one over on some company. Sad

    1
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Michael Sands
    Favourite Michael Sands
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    Sep 11th 2015, 2:17 AM

    Whaaaa…

    1
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