Fake WhatsApp clone crosses five lakh downloads on Google Play Store

A fake version of WhatsApp with a copied name, icon, and visual layout has crossed five lakh downloads on the Google Play Store. The duplicate app appeared as a sponsored suggestion above the official app when users searched for WhatsApp.

Details and Discovery

The copycat listing was first spotted by a Reddit user named '2ne1cheese' and later highlighted in reports by Android Authority and The Verge. Published in September, the fake app carries a download size of 42MB and was listed under the developer name Agment Assets sallu, while the official app is published by WhatsApp LLC. The listing utilized sponsored promotion to reach users, and reports noted that it may have misused Google Play's early access feature to block user reviews.

Safety Advice

Users are advised to check the developer name as WhatsApp LLC before installing, avoid downloading apps from unknown third-party stores, and watch out for suspicious review patterns like a sudden flood of five-star ratings within a week.

Context

Official app stores use automated filters and security reviews to block malicious software, but fraudulent clones occasionally slip past these checks by mimicking popular brand names and buying sponsored ad placement. Checking publisher details and download counts helps users separate official applications from deceptive lookalikes.