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WhatsApp refutes Android app security flaw claims, calls them 'overstated'

WhatsApp refutes Android app security flaw claims, calls them 'overstated'

By Ketan Pratap | Updated: 13 March 2014 17:53 IST

WhatsApp has refuted the media reports around the claim by Bas Bosschert that the WhatsApp app for Android has its shortcomings in terms of the privacy of chat history.

WhatsApp issued a statement which suggests that the claims have been 'overstated' and 'have not painted an accurate picture'.

TechCrunch has posted WhatsApp's full statement which said,

"We are aware of the reports regarding a "security flaw". Unfortunately, these reports have not painted an accurate picture and are overstated. Under normal circumstances the data on a microSD card is not exposed. However, if a device owner downloads malware or a virus, their phone will be at risk. As always, we recommend WhatsApp users apply all software updates to ensure they have the latest security fixes and we strongly encourage users to only download trusted software from reputable companies. The current version of WhatsApp in Google Play was updated to further protect our users against malicious apps."

It's worth pointing out that WhatsApp is claiming that its recently released Android app update can counter the malicious apps, but does not mention any features to protect chat history.

However, the company clearly notes that if an Android device owner downloads a malware or a virus, the device would be at risk.

Earlier on Thursday, Bas Bosschert in a blog post detailed how WhatsApp for Android had security flaws, noting the popular messaging service backs up its messages on the SD cards of devices - which could put the entire message database at risk.

Bosschert had also claimed that the latest WhatsApp update for Android, that added the option to hide 'last seen' status and more, has not fixed the security flaw in the app.

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Further reading: Android, Apps, Facebook, Google Play Store, WhatsApp

Ketan Pratap

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Ketan Pratap is the editor at Gadgets 360 - with over 12 years of experience covering the technology domain. With a breadth and depth of knowledge in the field, he's done extensive work across news, features, reviews, and opinion pieces. But what's truly inspiring about Ketan is how he spends his free time. He's often found gazing at snow-capped mountains from over 20,000 feet while sitting on the hood of his car, taking in the breathtaking beauty of nature. His passion for the great ...More