GB WhatsApp is a popular modded version of the official WhatsApp messenger for Android devices. It offers many additional features and customization options compared to the original WhatsApp. However, due to the popularity of GB WhatsApp, many fake versions have also emerged. So how do you identify the real GB WhatsApp and avoid installing malware or adware? Here are some tips to help determine which GB WhatsApp download is authentic and safe to use.
What is GB WhatsApp?
GB WhatsApp is a modified version of the official WhatsApp app for Android. It is not developed or endorsed by WhatsApp. GB WhatsApp offers many additional features over the official WhatsApp such as:
- Ability to customize chat bubbles, app icons, themes
- Increased media sharing limit up to 50MB
- Hide online status and blue ticks
- Schedule messages to send later
- Privacy modes like hiding last seen, profile photo
- DND mode to disable notifications
Due to these additional features, GB WhatsApp has become very popular among WhatsApp users who want more customization and privacy. However, since it is not an official app, it also carries certain risks which will be discussed later.
How to identify the real GB WhatsApp
Since the popularity of GB WhatsApp has also given rise to many fakes and imposters, you need to be careful while downloading it. Here are some tips to ensure you get the authentic app:
1. Download from trusted source
Only download GB WhatsApp from trusted and verified sources like apkpure.com, uptodown.com, apk4fun.com etc. Do not download from unknown sites which may host malware. The official GB WhatsApp website is gbwhatsappapk.com.
2. Verify developer signature
The real GB WhatsApp is developed by Atnfas Hoak, so the app should show developer name as “Atnfas Hoak” under App Info. Fake apps may show other developer names.
3. Check app permissions
GB WhatsApp only requires permissions essential for messaging and privacy features like Contacts, Storage, Camera etc. Beware of apps asking for unnecessary permissions like SMS or Call Logs as they could be adware.
4. Compare app size
The size of latest GB WhatsApp is around 40MB. Fake apps may show much smaller size like 10MB which indicates they are not full versions.
5. Check app reviews
The real GB WhatsApp will have thousands of positive reviews from satisfied users. Fake apps usually have very few installs and reviews. Checking recent reviews can give indication of app’s authenticity.
6. Verify app updates
The developer of GB WhatsApp frequently updates the app with new features and bug fixes. Make sure the app you installed also receives regular version updates from the developer.
Security risks of fake GB WhatsApp
While the real GB WhatsApp is safe to use, the fake versions you find on unknown sites can pose major security risks:
Malware infections
Fake apps may contain dangerous malware which can steal your data, lock your device, gain remote access etc. So always check reviews before installing.
Spam & intrusive ads
To earn money, fake apps show too many ads which ruin user experience. Some ads can lead to sites with malware or inappropriate content.
Data theft
Imposters may secretly collect your chats, contacts, photos and other personal data without consent and misuse it.
Spying & tracking
Some fake apps may track your activity across devices and spy on messages, calls, locations etc. Serious threat to privacy.
Bricks your device
In some cases, fake apps have also bricked users’ devices making them unusable. You may require factory reset to recover bricked device.
Key differences between real and fake GB WhatsApp
To quickly find out if the GB WhatsApp app you downloaded is genuine, check for these key differences:
| Feature | Real GB WhatsApp | Fake GB WhatsApp |
|---|---|---|
| Developer Name | Atnfas Hoak | Unknown |
| App Size | 40MB | 10MB or lower |
| Ads | No ads | Full of intrusive ads |
| Extra Permissions | Only requires essential messaging permissions | Asks for unnecessary permissions like SMS, Call logs etc. |
| Updates | Regular version updates | No updates after installing old version |
| User Reviews | Mostly positive reviews | Very few installs and reviews |
Safe downloading tips
To ensure you only get the real GB WhatsApp, follow these safe practices while downloading:
- Only download from trusted sources like apkpure.com or uptodown.com.
- Verify app developer name before installing.
- Check app permissions and make sure only essential ones are asked.
- Compare app size which should be around 40MB.
- Go through recent user reviews to identify red flags.
- Check if the app gets frequent updates from developer.
- Use a reliable anti-virus app to scan for malware before installing.
- Avoid clicking on random GB WhatsApp download links on forums or sites.
Following these tips will prevent you from downloading fake or malicious apps in the name of GB WhatsApp.
Conclusion
GB WhatsApp is one of the most popular WhatsApp mods with millions of users worldwide. However, its popularity has also given rise to many fake imposters and malware apps which may harm your device and risk your privacy. To ensure you only install the verified real GB WhatsApp, only download from trusted sources and check for the developer name, app size, permissions asked, user reviews and version updates. Avoid apps with unnecessary permissions and too many ads. Stick to these best practices to avoid installing malicious fake apps posing as GB WhatsApp. This will allow you to safely enjoy all the extra features and customizations offered in the real GB WhatsApp.