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In October 2025, social media has been buzzing with warnings about “WhatsApp Gold,” a purported premium version of the popular messaging app that promises exclusive features. Security experts and WhatsApp officials are warning users that this is a dangerous scam that has resurfaced after years of circulation.
The supposed “WhatsApp Gold” update claims to offer enhanced features like improved video call quality, new emojis, custom chat colors, and exclusive media sharing options. However, WhatsApp has confirmed to Snopes that this premium version does not exist.
“No, WhatsApp does not offer things like WA Gold or WA Plus. This is a hoax that has again resurfaced,” a WhatsApp spokesperson stated. “We strongly encourage people to only use the official WhatsApp app. We don’t support unofficial clients — which could use many different names — because they carry real security or privacy risks to the people they trick into downloading them.”
Messages promoting “WhatsApp Gold” typically contain links that direct users to malicious websites where cybercriminals attempt to steal personal information or install malware on victims’ devices. According to cybersecurity experts, this scam has been tricking users since 2016, making it nearly a decade old.
Several Facebook users have shared warnings about the scam, with one claiming to have heard about it on the radio. These warnings describe messages that entice users with promises of exclusive features accessible only through an upgrade. Some social media posts have incorrectly linked the “WhatsApp Gold” scam to another hoax involving a non-existent video called “Martinelli,” which supposedly hacks phones when opened.
The Federal Trade Commission explains that malware can take various forms, including viruses, spyware, and ransomware. When successfully installed, such malicious software can be used to steal sensitive information like bank account numbers, Social Security numbers, and login credentials.
Cybersecurity company Norton emphasizes that WhatsApp only offers one legitimate version of its application, which is available for free through official app stores like Apple’s App Store and Google Play Store. “Any message promoting premium variants is automatically fraudulent,” Norton states on its website.
Cybersecurity firm Avira advises users to be cautious about unexpected or suspicious links. If contacted by a suspected scammer on WhatsApp, users should avoid interaction and block the number immediately.
The United Kingdom’s National Fraud & Cyber Crime Reporting Center has also issued alerts about the “WhatsApp Gold” hoax, advising users on protective measures. This international response highlights the global reach of the scam.
This is not the first time messaging platforms have been targeted by scammers. Similar hoaxes involving non-existent videos with names like “Dance of the Pope” and “Dance of the Hillary” have circulated for years, falsely claiming to cause cyberattacks or install viruses.
Security experts recommend several protective measures for WhatsApp users:
– Only download WhatsApp from official app stores like Google Play or Apple’s App Store
– Be wary of messages promising exclusive or premium features
– Never click on suspicious links, even if they appear to come from friends
– Keep the app updated with the latest official version
– Enable two-factor authentication for added security
As messaging platforms continue to grow in popularity—WhatsApp currently has over 2 billion users worldwide—they remain attractive targets for scammers. Users are advised to stay vigilant and verify information through official channels before taking action on suspicious messages.
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7 Comments
I’m glad to see this alert about the ‘WhatsApp Gold’ scam resurfacing. It’s a good reminder that we need to be extremely cautious about any unsolicited app updates or premium offerings, no matter how convincing they may seem.
Agreed, it’s always best to stick to the official app and avoid anything that claims to offer exclusive features. The risks of falling for these scams simply aren’t worth it.
It’s really concerning to see these types of scams persisting online. Criminals are always finding new ways to target unsuspecting users. Thanks for the heads-up – I’ll make sure to avoid any suspicious ‘premium’ app offers.
Absolutely, it’s crucial to only use the official WhatsApp app. Downloading unauthorized versions can expose your device and data to serious risks. Better to miss out on ‘exclusive’ features than fall victim to malware.
Unbelievable that this ‘WhatsApp Gold’ scam has been circulating for years. Scammers really don’t give up, do they? Kudos to the security experts and WhatsApp for continually warning users about these malicious tactics.
Sneaky scams like this have been circulating for years. Glad to see WhatsApp is warning users about the fake ‘WhatsApp Gold’ update. We all need to be vigilant and stick to the official app to stay secure.
Wow, this ‘WhatsApp Gold’ scam has been around for years? That’s really persistent. It just goes to show you can never let your guard down online. Kudos to WhatsApp for continuing to warn users about these deceptive tactics.