In a major cyber security alert, India’s national cyber security agency, CERT-In (Indian Computer Emergency Response Team) has issued a warning for WhatsApp users on desktop systems, especially those using the Windows version of the app. The advisory raises concerns about a critical spoofing vulnerability that could expose users to serious cyber threats including data theft and malware attacks.
What Is the Vulnerability in WhatsApp Desktop?According to CERT-In’s official statement, the flaw identified as CIVN-2025-0075 affects WhatsApp Desktop versions prior to 2.2450.6 running on Windows. The vulnerability stems from misconfigurations in how file extensions and MIME types are handled by the application.
MIME (Multipurpose Internet Mail Extensions) helps email clients and web browsers interpret the type of file being opened. CERT-In explains that a misconfiguration in this process can allow malicious attachments to bypass standard security protocols, enabling spoofing attacks that disguise harmful content as legitimate files.
What Are the Risks for Users?The spoofing vulnerability puts users at risk of various cyber threats:
Unauthorized Access: Hackers can gain backdoor access to your computer system through the WhatsApp desktop client.
Data Breach: Sensitive information stored on your device can be stolen, including files, chats, and login credentials.
Malware Attacks: The system may be infected with spyware, ransomware, or other forms of malware via disguised file attachments.
This vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it exploits the way WhatsApp Desktop interacts with Windows file systems, making it easier for attackers to plant malicious files without detection.
Who Is Affected?The CERT-In alert specifically targets users of the Windows version of WhatsApp Desktop, particularly those who haven’t updated the app recently. If you're using a version older than 2.2450.6, your system might be exposed to this vulnerability.
How to Stay Safe: CERT-In’s RecommendationsTo protect against this potential security threat, CERT-In has advised users to take the following preventive steps:
Update WhatsApp Desktop Immediately
Make sure your WhatsApp Desktop is updated to version 2.2450.6 or later. This version reportedly contains the patch to fix the spoofing vulnerability.
Avoid Opening Suspicious Attachments
Be extremely cautious about downloading or opening file attachments from unknown or untrusted sources, even if they appear to come from familiar contacts.
Don’t Trust All File Extensions
Just because a file is labeled as .jpg or .pdf doesn’t mean it’s safe. Due to MIME spoofing, a malicious .exe could be disguised as a safe-looking image or document.
Use Antivirus and Security Tools
Ensure that your system is running real-time antivirus protection and that your firewall is active. Additional anti-malware tools can add an extra layer of security.
As of now, WhatsApp's parent company Meta, and Microsoft, the developer of the Windows operating system, have not released any official statements in response to CERT-In’s alert. Users are advised to remain vigilant until more information or an official patch is rolled out through mainstream updates.
Conclusion: Don’t Ignore This WarningCyber threats continue to evolve, and popular platforms like WhatsApp are frequent targets. While mobile versions of WhatsApp are more secure due to tighter OS-level restrictions, desktop applications often lack such protections, making them more vulnerable.
If you regularly use WhatsApp on your laptop or desktop, especially in professional or work-from-home settings, it's crucial to update the app and follow basic cybersecurity hygiene. In an age where data is currency, one spoofed file can lead to significant losses—don’t let your guard down.
