From auto replies, chat locks, fancy themes, font packs to status downloaders, how seductive WhatsApp mods are. You’re probably using one or dripping with temptation to try one. With an ever-gaining traction of users, WhatsApp mods have become a formidable opponent against Mark Zuckerberg’s official Facebook version. But do you really need the extras? Is your data safe? And why isn’t Facebook stopping them? Intrigued? Sit back, relax and enjoy.
A recent study by Caribou Digital showed that GBWhatsApp is the second most used app after the official WhatsApp in Kenya, Nigeria and South Africa. Even more surprising is the fact that it has more app sessions than Facebook, Facebook Messenger, Instagram, Snapchat and Twitter combined! The study monitored more than 230 million app sessions from over 4,000 volunteers in more than 21,000 apps. Users aged less than 24 years account for almost 50% on WhatsApp mods compared to 40% usage on official WhatsApp.
App session — Time spent on an app. Captured by launch (opening) of an app and existing (closing) the app.
A mod (modification) is an altered version of a software usually without proper consent of the developer. The tweaks are done by independent developers who crack the official code and through reverse engineering add the extra functionalities. In games, mods are used to add extra characters, new weapons, new levels and even new storylines. From WhatsApp Aero, WhatsApp Plus, FMWhatsApp, GBWhatsApp, NSWhatsApp, YOWhatsApp, OGWhatsApp to Soula WhatsApp, the list is endless.
Why are WhatsApp mods so enticing ?
Foremost, they are readily available. All you have to do is search for the desired mod on your browser, download it and install it. No rooting needed. Once you press install, the process is an exact replica of WhatsApp’s account set up, a great woo for novice android users.
The allure of the mods however, lies in their privacy settings and user interface customization. Users can lock chats, hide online status, freeze last seen or hide it from select contacts, hide profile picture from select contacts, hide ‘typing’ info, view status unseen and activate do not disturb mode (no messages/notifications received even with data on). You can change icons, download and apply different fonts and themes allowing you to create an ambiance that suits your persona.
The functionalities of course vary from mod to mod. It’s all about finding one with a combo you need. More functions across the mods include the auto reply feature, message scheduling, status downloaders, sending more than 90 pics at a go, sending messages without having to save a number and sending up to 50MB video file sizes.
Are you safe ?
No. WhatsApp mods are illegal and not secure. They violate WhatsApp’s Terms of Service and WhatsApp can not validate their security practices. The chats are not encrypted exposing you to third party attacks who can have access to your chats and personal information. As such, I strongly caution against sending sensitive files like bank credentials across the platforms. The storage and handling of your data is also unverified as the developers are rarely known.
WhatsApp mods are unstable and can crash any time cutting you off the global grid. Auto updates are also not available forcing users to manually search for and download latest versions from unverified websites. Downloads from these sites can inject spyware, malware and viruses to your devices causing system error, loss of data or both.
Know this, WhatsApp may ban your number from using their service should they detect it running on a mod. A ban from WhatsApp is fatal, it blocks you from sending messages on the mods as well. This is because the mods can only provide an interface and the extra functionalities but they use WhatsApp servers to send the messages. If you must use a mod, Do Not register with your primary number.
Epilogue
WhatsApp’s core is simplicity and security. Probably why they took so long to introduce the dark mode feature. Will they cave and accommodate the mod market, or will they assemble arsenal to curb them? Compare it to the fight against pirate torrent sites, block one and a dozen pop up. Not even a ban notice seems to hinder the uptake of the mods, seems like a losing battle.
Is it user loyalty or user ignorance? Highly debatable if you’ve got a mod running. One thing is for sure, more market research is needed to meet user expectations across the different digital economies.
