WhatsApp is undoubtedly one of the most popular instant messaging platforms available in the market right now, which is positive as well as negative at the same time for the users. Catering such huge user base, the platform has been affected by several scams and hoaxes directly affecting the users. We have seen several scam messages and forwarded in the past. However, 'WhatsApp Gold' was once such scam that fooled several messenger users for installing a malware. New WhatsApp Features in 2019: Top Features Coming To Platform This Year.

Raising some concerns for the users, the WhatsApp Gold Message is back on the platform, which is doing rounds in the form of a video. Seeking a clarity on the same, several users went ahead and posted on social media regarding the scam message they have receiving over the last few days. WhatsApp Will Not Be Available On These Phones in 2019; Is Your Mobile On The List?

In the year 2016, several WhatsApp users received messages on their smartphones asking them to download the new update wherein they will be able to make video calls and send 100 picture at once. This message was complete hoax. Also, WhatsApp updates are essentially rolled out through Google Play Store, not from messages.

Zaki Qureshey, a cybercrime expert and Hyderabad Security Cluster CEO stated that, "WhatsApp does not send videos at all. This is a long running scam that suggests there is a premium version of the application that will unlock extra features and abilities. But, there is no such thing. WhatsApp is free as of now and this is not expected to change anytime soon".

The message that is currently doing rounds on WhatsApp states - "Today the radio was talking about WhatsApp Gold and it is true. There is a video that will be released tomorrow on WhatsApp and is called Martinelli. Do not open it. Enter your phone and nothing you do will fix it. Spread the message if you know someone. If you receive a message to update Whatsapp Gold Do not open it! They just announced that the virus is serious. Send it to everyone."

KCS Raghu Vir, Additional Deputy Commissioner of Police mentioned that, "They did not receive any such complaint about any gadget getting hacked by the malware known as WhatsApp Gold. He further asked the WhatsApp users to be cautious of such messages and refrain oneself from clicking on embedded links in the messages. He said, "If you receive such a message, you should ignore it and delete it immediately."

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jan 07, 2019 12:40 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).