Security experts say iPhone and Android users in Ireland should be aware of two new WhatsApp warnings that could leave devices unable to send messages.
The first alert affects anyone with an Android device. Cyber criminals are targeting these phones via an unofficial version of WhatsApp.
It was spotted by a security team at Kasperky, who say an app called YoWahtsApp comes laced with a nasty malware called Triada.
READ MORE: All Ireland bank holiday dates in 2022 and 2023 with one imminent and Christmas Day ‘move’
When it is installed, the bug can allow hackers to take complete control of account - meaning criminals could send malicious money-stealing messages to family and other contacts, Express reports.
Modified versions of WhatsApp remain popular as they often claim to offer bonus features that can't be found on the official version of of the app.
Android users are the biggest target of these apps as they can be sideloaded onto devices without a trip to the Google Play store.
Adding these apps to an iPhone is impossible as Apple vets them first ,which is why these types of scams only target Android.
Explaining more about the threat, Kaspersky said: "Cybercriminals are increasingly using the power of legitimate software to distribute malicious apps. This means that users who choose popular apps and official installation sources, may still fall victim to them.
"In particular, malware like Triada can steal an IM account, and for example, use it to send unsolicited messages, including malicious spam. The user’s money is also at risk, as the malware can easily set up paid subscriptions for the victim."
Meanwhile, an upcoming change will affect some iPhone users in Ireland.
It was revealed in May that the Meta-owned platform was dropping support for any iPhones that can't run Apple's iOS 12 operating system or later.
While almost all new Apple smartphones will have no issues using this latest OS, it is bad news for anyone with an iPhone 5 or iPhone 5c in their pocket.
These ageing devices are no longer compatible with newer software and, from later this week, anyone owning one will find that WhatsApp no longer works.
It appears that those with incompatible devices are already receiving alerts which say: "Update to the latest version of iOS to continue using WhatsApp. WhatsApp will stop supporting this version of iOS after 24 Oct 2022."
Along with this pop-up window on iPhones, WhatsApp has also updated its support page which now states: "Currently, we provide support for and recommend using the following devices: Android running OS 4.1 and newer, iPhone running iOS 12 and newer."
READ NEXT:
- Central Bank governor backs mortgage rule change which will push up house prices
Marc MacSharry's readmission to Fianna Fail 'on hold' due to an 'issue that has arisen'
Vladimir Putin introduces martial law in Russian-held parts of Ukraine
Irish mum fighting stage 4 cancer after developing symptoms when pregnant
