Videos sent over WhatsApp could harm your phone - here’s how to stay safe

By Rhona Shennan
Published 19th Nov 2019, 15:16 BST
Updated 19th Nov 2019, 15:16 BST
Make sure your device isn't at risk (Photo: Shutterstock)Make sure your device isn't at risk (Photo: Shutterstock)
Make sure your device isn't at risk (Photo: Shutterstock)

WhatsApp is a popular messaging app used by thousands around the world, but it might not be as safe as some people may think.

Following a warning issued by Facebook (which owns WhatsApp), users are being urged to take action to protect their devices from harmful software.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

What’s the warning?

In the Facebook warning, it says, “A stack based buffer overflow could be triggered in WhatsApp by sending a specially crafted MP4 file to a WhatsApp user.”

What this means is that it could allow malicious attackers hide harmful code inside special MP4 video files. If you were to then watch that video, it could allow hackers to run software on your device which stops you from being able to access the internet, WhatsApp or other services.

It means that the attackers could also access important information on your device, like your bank, about details.

Who is affected?

According to the warning issued by Facebook, the issue can affect: