2024-12-09 18:55:00
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O WhatsApp confirmed, last Friday (6/12), that it fixed a bug in the single view which allowed malicious users to save images and videos that would disappear after they were opened for the first time.
Disclosed in September by security researcher Tal Be’erythe bug affected the web version of WhatsApp and was being exploited by a series of browser extensions, some of which were paid.
To the TechCrunch, Zade AlsawahMeta messenger spokesperson, explained that a “long-term solution” has been implemented to fix the issue. Even so, he gave some advice for users who decide to send single-view messages:
We’re constantly building layers of privacy protection, and that includes releasing important updates to single view on the web. As always, we continue to encourage users to only send single-view messages to people they know and trust, and ensure they are using the latest version of the app.
According to the information, the correction caused all extensions that took advantage of this loophole to stop working, with some of its users complaining precisely about this on the internet. “It doesn’t work AT ALL. Don’t waste your time”, says one of the reports seen by the vehicle.
Now, whenever the user receives a single-view message, they will see the same alert displayed by WhatsApp in its desktop version, which asks them to pick up their phone if they want to view the content of the message in question:
You have received a unique preview photo. For privacy reasons, you can only open this photo on your cell phone.
Be’ery celebrated WhatsApp’s quick response after its discovery:
Sometimes when a vulnerability is exploited in the wild, responsible disclosure is to make it public. We are very happy that our research and publication led WhatsApp to fix the issue and protect the privacy of its users.
We at MacMagazineit’s worth noting, we’ve already taught you how to send photos/videos and single-view audio messages.
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What steps did WhatsApp take to address the security vulnerability?
## WhatsApp Patches Bug in ‘View Once’ Feature
**Host:** Welcome back to Tech Talk. This week, we’re discussing a security issue recently patched by the popular messaging app, WhatsApp. Joining us today is cybersecurity expert, Sarah Jones, to explain what happened.
**Sarah:** Thanks for having me. WhatsApp recently fixed a vulnerability in its “View Once” feature, which allows users to send disappearing photos and videos. This wasn’t a flaw in the app itself, but rather a bug affecting the desktop version used via browsers.
**Host:** Can you tell us how the bug worked and who was affected?
**Sarah:** The bug allowed malicious users to bypass the ‘View Once’ feature using browser extensions, some even available for purchase. This meant they could save images and videos that were supposed to disappear after being viewed only once. This manipulation only worked on the web version of WhatsApp,leaving users on the mobile app unaffected.
**Host:** That sounds concerning. How did WhatsApp respond, and what are they doing to protect users?
**Sarah:** WhatsApp acknowledged the bug and swiftly deployed a long-term solution to address it. They’ve also been encouraging users to update their app to the latest version and only send ‘View Once’ messages to trusted contacts.
**Host:** Now, with the fix in place, are there any extensions still trying to bypass the safety features?
**Sarah:**
Essentially, yes. The fix caused these extensions to stop working, prompting complaints from some users online who relied on them to save disappearing content. Users are now seeing a prompt encouraging them to pick up their phones to view ‘View Once’ messages, reinforcing the security measures.
**Host:** What can our viewers learn from this incident?
**Sarah:** This situation highlights the importance of keeping your apps updated and being cautious about the information you share. While WhatsApp took quick action to address the bug, it serves as a reminder that security vulnerabilities can exist, emphasizing the need for robust privacy practices.
**Host:** Thank you, Sarah, for shedding light on this important topic.
**Sarah:** My pleasure.
