Be Careful – This “Severe” ‘Whatsapp Gold’ Scam Has Caught Out Too Many People In Ireland Already

We’ve all heard about the famous ‘Martinelli’ Whatsapp “scam” that has been doing the rounds for years, scaring people more and more each time. 

At the end of last year, it was proved that this scam was nothing but a pile of poop and that there was no truth in it whatsoever.

Great news.

So, when this message started doing the rounds this week, we didn’t take any notice of it. Apparently it was our old friend ‘Martinelli’ popping its nose up again but actually there is some horrifying truth in this message.

The strange message reads: 

“If you know anyone using WhatsApp you might pass on this. An IT colleague has advised that a video comes out tomorrow from WhatsApp called martinelli do not open it, it hacks your phone and nothing will fix it. Spread the word.”

“If you receive a message to update the Whatsapp to Whatsapp Gold, do not click !!!!!

“Now said on the news this virus is difficult and severe. Pass it on to all.”

While the first part regarding the ‘Martinelli’ video is false, the piece about the Whatsapp Gold is actually a true scam.  

The Irish Mirror is reporting that there is only one version of the messaging service and you’re already using it. 

The new upgrade claims to offer new features such as video chats, the ability to send 100 pictures at once and the ability to delete message after you’ve sent them. 

However, when you click to download the update, you are instead taking to a website “with malicious software, infecting their smartphones with nasty viruses.”

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