Communication has become significantly easier than it was a few decades ago, but it has also grown more perilous. Gmail users are now being cautioned about an advanced AI-driven attack, social media has turned into a hotbed for emerging threats, and even iPhone users find themselves vulnerable to cybercriminals. Meta has acknowledged that a zero-click hacking attack—one that doesn’t require any interaction from users—has affected individuals on the WhatsApp secure messaging platform. Here’s what we know thus far.
Meta Confirm Of Whatsapp Hack By Cyber Attackers
As initially reported by The Guardian, WhatsApp users have fallen victim to an elaborate spyware hacking attempt that requires no input from the victims. WhatsApp informed the publication that it was highly confident that the users it contacted had been specifically targeted and potentially compromised. While the detailed specifics of this alarming cyberattack against WhatsApp users remain scarce at this juncture, Meta has confirmed that the attack “affected several users, including journalists and members of civil society” and is currently under investigation.
alerting individuals believed to be victims of the currently unidentified attackers. “This incident exemplifies the necessity for accountability within spyware companies for their illegal activities. WhatsApp is committed to safeguarding individuals’ rights to communicate privately,” stated a spokesperson from Meta.
It has been confirmed that approximately 90 high-risk WhatsApp users were targeted, although Meta has not disclosed their specific geographic locations; reports suggest they may have originated from over 20 countries. However, it has been established that these users were affected by spyware from an Israeli software firm named Paragon Solutions. Meta is reported to have sent a cease-and-desist notice to Paragon and is actively pursuing additional legal options. As of now, Paragon has not responded to these developments.
“Paragon’s spyware, referred to as Graphite, possesses capabilities similar to those of the NSO Group’s Pegasus spyware,” said Stephanie Kirchgaessner, deputy head of investigations for The Guardian U.S.”When a phone becomes compromised by Graphite, the spyware’s operator gains complete access to the device, which includes the ability to read messages sent through encrypted apps such as WhatsApp and Signal.” This information is still developing, and I will provide updates as they arise. Credit Source (Forbes)