Don't Fall for the WhatsApp Gold Scam

A WhatsApp hoax message has reportedly resurfaced, raising concern among users who have received what appear to be different versions of fake chain messages that have been actually circulating for a few years. Scammers are leveraging the current state of cybersecurity – in which end users are constantly reminded to keep their software updated – with the return of a hoax message promoting a premier WhatsApp service. The message tells users to download a fake update called WhatsApp Gold, according to the Evening Standard. However, WhatsApp Plus and WhatsApp Gold are not applications developed by WhatsApp. Chain messages related to both of these fraudulent apps as well as the Martinelli virus scam have reportedly been around since 2016 and were deemed hoaxes in 2017. Threats of the malware’s return have resurfaced since the ringing in of 2019. A fraudulent message, the hoax promises users access to enhanced features in WhatsApp if they download the latest "secret" update. However, when users click on the link, they are potentially downloading a malicious software nicknamed WhatsApp Gold, according to Snopes.