Italian spyware vendor creates Fake WhatsApp app, targeting 200 users

WhatsApp uncovered a counterfeit WhatsApp client created by Italian firm Asigint (part of SIO Spa) that contained government-grade spyware and targeted about 200 users—mostly in Italy—through social engineering and out-of-store distribution; WhatsApp blocked the app, logged out and alerted affected users, urged reinstallation of the official app, and plans legal action. The incident is tied to prior Spyrtacus activity and demonstrates the use of fake apps as a targeted surveillance technique capable of exfiltrating messages, contacts, and device sensors.