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Fake WhatsApp App With Over 5 Lakh Downloads Spotted on Google Play Store
M
Moneycontrol•17-10-2026, 11:43
Fake WhatsApp App With Over 5 Lakh Downloads Spotted on Google Play Store
- •A malicious third-party app impersonating WhatsApp managed to accumulate over 5 lakh downloads on the Google Play Store.
- •The fraudulent listing appeared in a sponsored search position above the official app, published by a developer named Agment Assets sallu.
- •The app copied official visual elements like icons and screenshots, and may have used Google Play's Early Access program to hide public reviews.
- •Users who downloaded the app are advised to uninstall it immediately, check granted permissions, and secure their accounts if credentials were entered.
Key Questions Answered
The fake WhatsApp application was published by a developer using the name 'Agment Assets sallu' and featured visual elements mimicking the original messaging app.
The imitation app appeared in a sponsored search position directly above the official messaging app on the Google Play Store.
Users who installed the suspicious app should immediately uninstall it and check the permissions granted to it. If account details or codes were shared, they must secure their WhatsApp account right away.
