High Alert Issued Over Cyberattacks Via WhatsApp Web And Desktop

The threat level has been classified as high for people handling sensitive information as attackers impersonate government officials and departments to send malicious files that may steal passwords and data. ISLAMABAD, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 26th Oct, 2026) A critical security alert has been issued amid growing risks to cybersecurity, data protection and the theft of sensitive information, aiming to protect government institutions and key individuals from cyberattacks. The National Cyber Emergency Response Team has issued a high alert and detailed advisory regarding dangerous cyberattacks carried out through WhatsApp Web and Desktop. The advisory classified the threat level as 'high' for government officials, officers of sensitive departments and individuals handling important information. According to the advisory, hackers and attackers are impersonating government officials and institutions to conduct targeted phishing and malware attacks through WhatsApp Web, Desktop and email. Opening malicious files sent under the names of official documents can severely compromise Windows operating systems. The advisory warned that once a system is compromised, attackers may gain remote control of the computer, creating a significant risk of confidential password and data theft, as well as session hijacking. Attackers can hijack a WhatsApp session and use the affected number to deceive other people and target additional networks. An unexpected message from a known number or the appearance of unknown sessions under linked devices is a clear sign of a targeted attack. In view of the dangerous situation, the Cyber Emergency Response Team recommended that officers handling sensitive information immediately stop using WhatsApp Web and the Desktop app on Windows and promptly log out of suspicious WhatsApp Web sessions. Users were advised not to open unverified links, files or messages and never to share passwords, one-time passwords or verification codes with anyone. A complete ban was also proposed on transferring files received through WhatsApp to official Windows computers. Cyber experts instructed users and government officials to keep Windows, browsers and other software updated and enable two-step verification. If hacking is suspected on any device, it should immediately be disconnected from the internet and network. Messages and security logs should be preserved as evidence, and the relevant security teams should be informed for legal and technical investigations.