WhatsApp users warned they'll be BANNED for trying to get around major shutdown on millions of devices this week
WHATSAPP users are warned not to use unofficial dupes of the messaging service after the main app was shutdown for some devices.
The
1
App stopped working on a number of phones this week
Credit: Getty
There are a number of replica WhatsApp apps that allow people to contact friends but they're strictly forbidden by the tech giant.
GBWhatsApp and WhatsApp Plus are just some of the popular alternatives.
But anyone caught using them faces their
So users affected by recent changes shouldn't be tempted to try them out.
Read more about WhatsApp
For an iPhone, that would require "jailbreaking" the device which isn't for the fainthearted and never advised.
WhatsApp announced that it will only support iPhones running iOS 15.1 or later from Monday (May 5).
This includes:
iPhone 5s
iPhone 6
iPhone 6 Plus
Most read in Tech
WhatsApp says it
doesn't allow unofficial apps because they "can't validate their security practices
".
"If you use these apps your privacy and security are at risk," the company states on its website.
WhatsApp reveals exacty how to block one of your contacts
"Unofficial apps carry malware that can steal your data, and damage your phone.
"There's no guarantee your messages or your data, like your location or the files you share, will be private and secure.
"Your account might also be temporarily or permanently banned."
The safest option is to continue accessing WhatsApp is to upgrade to a new smartphone.
WHAT TO DO IF I'M AFFECTED
Sadly, if you want to continue using WhatsApp legitimately and safely the best option is to upgrade your phone.
Of course, the trusty SMS text message will still work, as well as Apple's own iMessage, so you could switch but you won't have key features like groups anymore as you do on WhatsApp.
If you do opt for an upgrade, it doesn't have to be the most expensive option around.
Even Apple has a new cheaper version of the iPhone.
The latest being the
And there are plenty of good Android options around too if you're tempted to switch, such as the
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