WhatsApp Photos Can Now Steal Your Cash – Right here’s How To Keep Secure | Know-how Information

For those who assume {that a} forwarded picture on WhatsApp is innocent, assume once more. A chilling new rip-off is making the rounds in India, and all it takes is one picture to wipe out your checking account.
A 28-year-old man from Jabalpur just lately misplaced Rs 2 lakh simply by downloading an image from a WhatsApp ahead. There have been no hyperlinks or calls. It was simply a picture.
So what’s going on?
Cybercriminals are taking part in new trick. They’re utilizing steganography, which hides malicious code inside photos that look completely regular. As soon as downloaded, this hidden malware silently installs itself, grabs your passwords, intercepts your OTPs and might even drain your checking account.
Sadly, these information don’t even elevate alarms with most antivirus software program. That’s what makes this new rip-off so harmful.
Catching the sort of malware isn’t simple as a result of the malicious code is hidden inside picture information. It usually slips previous common antivirus applications that solely search for identified threats or apparent suspicious behaviour.
Detecting these hidden assaults requires deep forensic evaluation and superior risk detection instruments, issues most on a regular basis customers and their units merely do not need entry to.
Within the Jabalpur case, the malware quietly infiltrated his telephone, scooped up delicate information and finally let hackers steal Rs 2 lakh instantly from his checking account – all with out elevating a single pink flag.
However don’t panic. Right here is how one can keep protected.
1. Flip off auto-downloads: Go to WhatsApp > Settings > Storage and Knowledge > Media Auto-Obtain > Disable every little thing.
2. Don’t obtain media from strangers: For those who have no idea the sender, don’t belief the file.
3. Replace group settings: Restrict group invitations to solely your contacts to cut back spam forwards.
4. By no means share delicate info on WhatsApp: Even whether it is somebody you realize, confirm first.
Share this to guard your loved ones and mates as a result of the subsequent picture they open might be a entice.