Warning! WhatsApp Web could suspend your account! Cybersecurity experts have warned about a new virus (SORVEPOTEL) spreading on WhatsApp Web and it could cause the suspension of accounts because of suspicious or automated behavior.
It’s true that most of the cases detected until now are from Brazil, but experts warn that it’s a matter of time that the virus reaches other countries. According to the report, 477 computers have already been infected and 457 of them are in Brazil. So, let’s learn more about this virus and how you can protect yourself from it. Nobody likes having their accounts infected, right?
The virus
In comparison to other computer viruses that try to steal passwords or money, SORVEPOTEL has a different aim: spread without control among WhatsApp Web users and cause interruptions in systems and networks. So, instead of stealing data, this virus focuses on automated spreading and once it infects a computer, it uses WhatsApp Web to resend infected files to every contact and groups of users.
This behavior generates suspicious activity, which makes WhatsApp to suspend accounts since it detects automated or unusual messages.
How the SORVEPOTEL virus is spread
The infection begins with a phishing message sent from an already compromised account, which makes the recipient more likely to trust it. The message includes a ZIP file that appears legitimate—like a payment receipt, invoice, or medical report—but actually hides a malicious file. Inside the ZIP is a hidden Windows shortcut (.LNK). When the user opens the file, a hidden program starts running. It downloads the virus from the internet and installs it on the computer. After that, the malware turns on by itself every time the computer starts.
When the virus detects that the user has WhatsApp Web or the desktop app open, it begins to cause trouble.
How to protect yourself from the virus
The company Trend Micro recommends to follow several measures to avoid being victim of the SORVEPOTEL malware. These precautions are simple, but can prevent an infection:
- Disable automatic downloads in both WhatsApp Web and the desktop app to prevent files from being saved without your permission.
- Do not open ZIP files or attachments from unknown senders, no matter if they appear trustworthy or look like official documents.
- Keep your computer and antivirus software up to date so they can block the latest types of malware.
- Be cautious even with friends or coworkers, since someone’s account could be infected and send you the virus without them realizing it.
- Employees should learn about online safety so they can prevent these types of scams.
- Limit file sharing at work or on remote computers to reduce the chance of spreading viruses.
Why the virus is dangerous
Even though SOVERPOTEL doesn’t steal personal data or block files, it’s still dangerous because it can spread with no control and affect both individual users and companies. This is why experts warn this malware could evolve toward more complex attacks in the future if we don’t take preventive measures now.
What to do if you use WhatsApp Web
Before opening a ZIP file or any other document, make sure it’s from a trusted source. If you notice your account is doing something unusual, disconnect right away and run a full antivirus scan on your computer.
Nowadays we live in a world where technology is all over around us and, from now and then, we hear about a data breach issue or something like that. So, you should be careful, not only with WhatsApp, but with every app you use. Have you ever been affected by a virus like this?
