Tech & Gadgets

WhatsApp Data Breach, Kaspersky Makes Comment On It

A database containing up-to-date mobile phone numbers of nearly 500 million WhatsApp users were allegedly leaked and put up for sale. The seller claims they can offer phone numbers of users from 84 countries, which is concerning.

Once this data ends up in untrustworthy hands, fraudsters might launch various types of attacks from spam calls to voice phishing. Privacy risks are another major concern. For a cybercriminal, having a potential victim’s phone number significantly increases the opportunity of a successful attack, since most online services require entering a phone number along with other personal data: name, email address, and sometimes card details. Doxing, cyberbullying, blackmailing and extortion are among the potential cyber threats victims might face.

To stay safe, we advise users:

– Hide your data from everyone except those in your contact list in the WhatsApp privacy settings.

– Be cautious and pay attention to calls and messages from unknown numbers.

– Enable two-factor authentication if it has not already been enabled, so fraudsters won’t be able to use your number for malicious purposes.

– Never open suspicious links sent by anyone as there might be malicious files attached or could directly lead you to fraudulent content.

Kaspersky’s tips for users after a data breach

Victor Chebyshev, Lead Security Researcher at Kaspersky GReAT

Adib Mohd

Recent Posts

Step In, Stand Out, Converse Introduces Malaysia’s All Star Class of 2026

Are you ready to meet your new classmates? Converse Malaysia will bring you into a… Read More

13 hours ago

IKEA Malaysia Crowns Three Ultimate Cook-Off Champions

The heat was on and creativity was unleashed. On 4 and 5 October 2025, over… Read More

13 hours ago

Maxim E-hailing Shares Free Car Seats for Best Drivers, Pioneering Child Passenger Safety in Kuala Terengganu

Maxim E-hailing Shares Free Car Seats for Best Drivers, Pioneering Child Passenger Safety in Kuala… Read More

14 hours ago

47th ASEAN Summit? Heart-Melting Moments, Laughter and Unity in Kuala Lumpur!

On October 26, Malaysia took the spotlight as the host of the 47th ASEAN Summit.… Read More

14 hours ago

Viral Diplomacy: The Unforgettable Moments of the 47th ASEAN Summit

The 47th ASEAN Summit in Kuala Lumpur was more than a platform for high-level policy… Read More

17 hours ago

4 Ways Garmin Helps You Prioritise Health & Self-Care This Pinktober

Because taking care of yourself isn’t just a trend, it’s a lifestyle. October might be… Read More

1 day ago

This website uses cookies.