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WhatsApp clone reaches 500,000 downloads on Google Play Store
A fraudulent WhatsApp Messenger application has been identified on the Google Play Store, accumulating over 500,000 downloads. The app, attributed to a developer named ‘Agment Assets sallu’, closely mimicked the official service by using the same icon, screenshots, and description text.
Reports indicate that the clone appeared as a sponsored search result for some users, placing it above the legitimate WhatsApp application published by WhatsApp LLC. The deceptive app was reportedly active on the platform starting in September 2026.
Security analysts suggest the app exploited Google Play’s Early Access program to bypass public scrutiny. This feature allows developers to test software while preventing users from posting public reviews or ratings, effectively hiding warnings from potential victims. While the high download count and sponsored placement increased its visibility, there is currently no confirmed technical evidence proving the app installs malware, though it poses significant risks regarding data collection and deceptive advertising.
Entities
Agment Assets sallu · Android Authority · Bitdefender · Google Play Store · Meta · WhatsApp · WhatsApp LLC
Claims
What the coverage asserts, and how many sources carry each claim.
- [● 4 SOURCES] The application may be utilizing Google Play’s early access program, which prevents users from posting public reviews. www.chip.com.tr · wwwhatsnew.com · www.theverge.com · www.newsbytesapp.com
- [● 4 SOURCES] There is currently no technical evidence or confirmed analysis proving the application installs malware on devices. www.teknoblog.com · wwwhatsnew.com · www.mobilebit.com.br · mobilenet.cz
- [● 14 SOURCES] The counterfeit app appeared as a sponsored result above the official WhatsApp application for some users during searches. www.chip.com.tr · www.teknoblog.com · wwwhatsnew.com · pplware.sapo.pt · www.mobilebit.com.br · +9 more
- [● 4 SOURCES] Bitdefender noted that misleading apps can exploit the lack of public reviews in the early access stage. www.chip.com.tr · wwwhatsnew.com · www.ad-hoc-news.de · mobilenet.cz
- [● 11 SOURCES] The fake app copied the official WhatsApp icon, screenshots, and description to mimic the real product. www.chip.com.tr · www.teknoblog.com · wwwhatsnew.com · pplware.sapo.pt · www.mobilebit.com.br · +6 more
- [● 14 SOURCES] A fake WhatsApp application published by developer 'Agment Assets sallu' reached over 500,000 downloads on the Google Play Store. www.chip.com.tr · www.teknoblog.com · wwwhatsnew.com · pplware.sapo.pt · www.mobilebit.com.br · +9 more