Digital Marketing & Creative16 May 20192 min read

Update WhatsApp to protect yourself from a security threat

WhatsApp users are urged to update their WhatsApp app to the latest software update.

SCSophie ChenCSPRO insights
Update WhatsApp to fix security vulnerabilities and protect against potential cyber threats

WhatsApp users are urged to update their WhatsApp app to the latest software update.

WhatsApp, owned by Facebook, is a popular messaging app for smartphones. It offers a secure messaging service for one-on-one or small group conversations. As a result, it is a target for scammers trying to hack into users’ confidential conversations. It performs other malicious activities.

How to make sure your WhatsApp app is up-to-date

1. On an iPhone or iOS device

Go to the App Store and search for WhatsApp. Tap UPDATE next to WhatsApp Messenger.

2. On an Android device

Go to the Play Store and search for WhatsApp. Tap UPDATE next to WhatsApp Messenger.

Why are software updates so important?

Software and security updates fix vulnerabilities in your apps, devices and operating systems that cybercriminals may also use to gain unauthorised access or to perform other malicious activity.

Typically, attackers exploit vulnerabilities to perform other malicious actions, such as stealing or corrupting information, installing malware or stopping the affected system from working correctly.

How do I stay safe?

Whenever possible, choose to automatically apply security updates when they become available. Automatic updates minimise the risk of delaying or forgetting to apply an update and limit the chance that cybercriminals will also gain access to your devices and sensitive personal and financial data.

For more information, please visit: www.staysmartonline.gov.au

TaggedCybersecurity for mobile appsMobile app security solutionsWhatsApp security update Australia

Frequently asked questions

On an iPhone or other iOS device, open the App Store, search for WhatsApp and tap Update next to WhatsApp Messenger. On an Android device, open the Play Store, search for WhatsApp and tap Update. Keeping the app current makes sure you have the latest security fixes.

In May 2019, WhatsApp users were urged to install the latest update to fix a security vulnerability. WhatsApp is a popular messaging app used for private one-on-one and small group conversations, which makes it a target for attackers trying to access confidential conversations or carry out other malicious activity.

Security updates fix vulnerabilities that attackers use to gain unauthorised access, steal or corrupt information, install malware or stop a system working properly. Applying updates automatically removes the risk of delaying or forgetting an update and limits the chance that cybercriminals can reach your devices and your personal and financial data.

Keep reading

More practical guidance

All articles