WhatsApp Discovers Major Security Loophole

WhatsApp Discovers Major Security Loophole

Here's what you need to know about WhatsApp's major security flaw.

  • By Sydny Shepard
  • May 16, 2019

The team at WhatsApp, the Facebook-owned messaging platform which has surpassed 1.5 billion users around the world, says a major security loophole was exploited by an Israeli-based group that has a history of working with governments to steal data and spy on citizens.

An article by TechCrunch explained the vulnerability as a, "bug in the audio call feature of the app to allow the caller to enable the installation of spyware on the device being called, whether the call was answered or not."

There's no word yet on how many users were targeted by the attack, but WhatsApp says they believe it is a relatively small group. A fix for the problem was rolled out within 10 days of its discovery. The messaging app is urging all users to update to the latest version of the app to eliminate any further concern.

Craig Young, computer security researcher for Tripwire's VERT (Vulnerability and Exposure Research Team), said that an attack like this should have been somewhat expected.

"A compromised smart phone is a veritable treasure trove for spies looking to infiltrate a target," Young said. "Consider that WhatsApp surpassed 1.5 billion installs over a year ago, it should come as no surprise to anyone that sophisticated adversaries like NSO group are investing resources to develop exploits for it."

Attacks like these have played out in similar messaging services like Apple's iMessage and Google Hangouts, according to Young. He offered up a few tips for organizations hoping to avoid an attack like WhatsApp suffered.

“Organizations concerned about such targeted attacks should be taking extra precautions to limit what data including emails, messages, and account credentials are stored on devices," Young said. "In some cases, it makes sense to have multiple devices for multiple purposes and to restrict the ability to bring phones to sensitive meetings or locations.”

About the Author

Sydny Shepard is the Executive Editor of Campus Security & Life Safety.

Featured

  • 2025 Gun Violence Statistics Show Signs of Progress

    Omnilert, a national leader in AI-powered safety and emergency communications, has released its 2025 Gun Violence Statistics, along with a new interactive infographic examining national and school-related gun violence trends. In 2025, the U.S. recorded 38,762 gun-violence deaths, highlighting the continued importance of prevention, early detection, and coordinated response. Read Now

  • Big Brand Tire & Service Rolls Out Interface Virtual Perimeter Guard

    Interface Systems, a managed service provider delivering remote video monitoring, commercial security systems, business intelligence, and network services for multi-location enterprises, today announced that Big Brand Tire & Service, one of the nation’s fastest-growing independent tire and automotive service providers, has eliminated costly overnight break-ins and significantly reduced trespassing and vandalism at a high-risk location. The company achieved these results by deploying Interface Virtual Perimeter Guard, an AI-powered perimeter security solution designed to deter incidents before they occur. Read Now

  • The Evolution of ID Card Printing: Customer Challenges and Solutions

    The landscape of ID card printing is evolving to meet changing customer needs, transitioning from slow, manual processes to smart, on-demand printing solutions that address increasingly complex enrollment workflows. Read Now

  • TSA Awards Rohde & Schwarz Contract for Advanced Airport Screening Ahead of Soccer World Cup 2026

    Rohde & Schwarz, a provider of AI-based millimeter wave screening technology, announced today it has won a multi-million dollar award from TSA to supply its QPS201 AIT security scanners to passenger security screening checkpoints at selected Soccer World Cup 2026 host city airports. Read Now

  • Brivo, Eagle Eye Networks Merge

    Dean Drako, Chairman of Brivo, the leading global provider of cloud-native access control and smart space technologies, and Founder of Eagle Eye Networks, the global leader in cloud AI video surveillance, today announced the two companies will merge, creating the world’s largest AI cloud-native physical security company. The merged company will operate under the Brivo name and deliver a truly unified cloud-native security platform. Read Now

Most   Popular

New Products

  • PE80 Series

    PE80 Series by SARGENT / ED4000/PED5000 Series by Corbin Russwin

    ASSA ABLOY, a global leader in access solutions, has announced the launch of two next generation exit devices from long-standing leaders in the premium exit device market: the PE80 Series by SARGENT and the PED4000/PED5000 Series by Corbin Russwin. These new exit devices boast industry-first features that are specifically designed to provide enhanced safety, security and convenience, setting new standards for exit solutions. The SARGENT PE80 and Corbin Russwin PED4000/PED5000 Series exit devices are engineered to meet the ever-evolving needs of modern buildings. Featuring the high strength, security and durability that ASSA ABLOY is known for, the new exit devices deliver several innovative, industry-first features in addition to elegant design finishes for every opening.

  • Automatic Systems V07

    Automatic Systems V07

    Automatic Systems, an industry-leading manufacturer of pedestrian and vehicle secure entrance control access systems, is pleased to announce the release of its groundbreaking V07 software. The V07 software update is designed specifically to address cybersecurity concerns and will ensure the integrity and confidentiality of Automatic Systems applications. With the new V07 software, updates will be delivered by means of an encrypted file.

  • Camden CV-7600 High Security Card Readers

    Camden CV-7600 High Security Card Readers

    Camden Door Controls has relaunched its CV-7600 card readers in response to growing market demand for a more secure alternative to standard proximity credentials that can be easily cloned. CV-7600 readers support MIFARE DESFire EV1 & EV2 encryption technology credentials, making them virtually clone-proof and highly secure.