WhatsApp vulnerability allowed hackers to install spyware on users' phones

WhatsApp
(Image credit: Yasuyoshi Chiba / Getty Images)

WhatsApp is pushing an update after disclosing a vulnerability that exposed users to hackers.

The app's calling function was used by hackers to install spyware on the phones of a number of users believed to be in the dozens at least, CBS News reports. Affected users would receive a call or two from an unknown number, and even if they didn't pick it up, this was enough for the spyware to be installed, NBC News reports.

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Brendan Morrow

Brendan worked as a culture writer at The Week from 2018 to 2023, covering the entertainment industry, including film reviews, television recaps, awards season, the box office, major movie franchises and Hollywood gossip. He has written about film and television for outlets including Bloody Disgusting, Showbiz Cheat Sheet, Heavy and The Celebrity Cafe.