FBI warns of critical security flaws in popular messaging apps
The FBI has issued a warning to WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger, and Signal users about new security vulnerabilities. According to Forbes, the federal agency urges immediate changes to app settings and the adoption of additional protective measures to counter the mounting cyber threat.
According to the FBI, the default settings currently in place in communication apps may not offer adequate protection against the increasingly sophisticated attack methods.
Cybersecurity experts point out that the issue primarily relates to data protection mechanisms such as end-to-end encryption. While encryption is meant to ensure safety, it has proven insufficient against certain threats.
Special focus has been placed on data stored locally on users' devices. The FBI stresses that inadequate protection of this data could result in the leakage of confidential information, including credit card numbers, passwords, and personal data.
Microsoft and security measures
In response to reports of security vulnerabilities, Microsoft has updated its Recall system, which now more effectively identifies and protects sensitive data. The company assures that information such as passwords or identification numbers will not be recorded or stored if they are detected to be vulnerable to threats.
The FBI and security experts recommend immediate actions for users to enhance security. The suggested measures include:
- Enabling two-factor authentication (2FA).
- Regularly updating apps to the latest versions.
- Frequently changing access passwords.
- Setting limitations on access to message history and backups.
The FBI further highlights the issue of users running outdated versions of communication apps. Such software is particularly susceptible to attacks, which can lead to the leakage of personal and business data.
Threats related to backups
An FBI report indicates that data stored in the cloud or on local devices may be vulnerable to attacks. Even encrypted messages can be intercepted during the creation of backups. Users are advised to utilise local, encrypted backups as much as possible and to reduce the storage of sensitive data in the cloud.
The FBI has also urged major operating system manufacturers, including Microsoft, Apple, and Google, to collaborate more closely on improving security standards. This cooperation is aimed at responding more swiftly to detected vulnerabilities and providing better protection for users.
According to the latest data, the last quarter saw a more than 150% increase in attempted attacks on communication app users. Increasingly, not only private individuals but also business and institutional accounts are being targeted. The FBI warns that neglecting this issue could lead to serious consequences, including data loss and financial losses.
