IDXChannel – WhatsApp has just launched a feature that allows users to be able to join a group video call even if the call has already started.
But apparently, features like this can increase the risk tapping (eavesdropping).
This was stated by Victor Chebyshev, Lead Security Researcher at Kaspersky, in a written statement, quoted Friday (23/7/2021).
According to him, from a security point of view the ability to join an ongoing group video call increases the risk of eavesdropping.
“In general, if the attackers are in a WhatsApp group, it will not be difficult for them to connect to the call,” he explained.
These hackers just have to wait until most of the participants have joined and then they can participate without being noticed.
These hackers also don’t have to sit too long waiting for the call to start, as they can connect at any time.
It’s worth noting that group members – especially admins – can track participants and ensure that outsiders don’t join. In addition, the messenger application itself guarantees the privacy of data exchange in groups through the use of end-to-end encryption.
As such, neither the app itself, nor the people trying to launch a man-in-the-middle attack, will be able to intercept group correspondence or calls, including group calls.
“To date, most of the malicious software has focused on intercepting WhatsApp messages and archived online dialogues, and we haven’t found any cases related to intercepting any calls, especially group calls,” said Victor.
However, if the device is infected, it is likely that the Trojan will have the ability to record the microphone and camera on the device.
This allows hackers to eavesdrop on any conversation, regardless of the communication channel used, be it instant messengers or regular calls on cell phone. (TIA)
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