These fake versions have been downloaded more than 60,000 times and contain spy codes that steal users’ messages, contact lists and other personal information.
The apps appear to target Chinese-speaking users and Uyghurs, pointing to possible links to government surveillance and repression mechanisms.
When a user receives a message through an infected application, a copy of that message is sent to the attacker’s server.
Google had already removed these apps from its store and blocked the developers. However, experts warn that such malicious applications continue to occur.
We would like to remind you once again that it is important to use only original versions of instant messaging programs and be careful when downloading applications.
Source: Ferra
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