GBWhatsApp is a mod, version of the original WhatsApp application. In some ways, it is safe, as long as it depends on where you download it and how you look out for your device. Although the app itself offers a number of features not found in the official WhatsApp, downloadable GBWhatsApp exposes users to considerable security risks. Kaspersky reported that more than 30% of owners of Android devices download their apps from unofficial application stores; most of them are not properly secured. In this way, one has a bigger chance of coming across malware, spyware, or just any kind of malicious software.
Another major concern is that WhatsApp has no official updates. Since GBWhatsApp is not endorsed by the original company, WhatsApp Inc., it does not receive periodic security patches and updates. The app can, therefore, be susceptible to security exploits that have already been fixed in the original version. For example, a vulnerability discovered in 2019 allowed hackers to use certain modified WhatsApp versions to access personal info. The researchers from Check Point Research explained that downloading modified apps from sources that are untrusted increases the likeliness of users to be more exposed to data breaches and unauthorized access to private messages.
While GBWhatsApp can let its users hide their online status and avoid marking messages as read, it bypasses some of the built-in security features in the original app. Some of the versions of GBWhatsApp may not be using end-to-end encryption properly, which may jeopardize their users' data. On the other hand, the official WhatsApp uses the Signal Protocol for completely secure message encryption. According to a 2023 survey provided by Statista, 75% of users are concerned with data encryption when it comes to choosing a messaging application. This clearly denotes that security continues to be one of the most crucial factors for the majority of mobile app users.
Another critical issue in GBWhatsApp security is where it was downloaded from. Some third-party sites may provide an already compromised version to compromise users' privacy. For instance, according to reports by TechCrunch, some unofficial APK downloads of modified WhatsApp reportedly contain hidden tracking software. Therefore, it remains very important that users verify the source of the application, ensuring that the download link comes from a trusted source.
These risks can only be avoided if the download is made from a reliable source. Sites that offer verified and safe downloads would be a better option to keep clear of malware, among other security threats. For the lovers who will want to download GBWhatsApp, downloading it from a trusted site ensures a safe experience with the added features it comes with.