Downloading GBWhatsApp is still not safe for users because it is an unofficial, third-party application. GBWhatsApp has never been available on the Google Play Store, and therefore they are not subjected to the same level of security checks like WhatsApp or other official apps. In fact, though, the risk of malware or any other malicious software actually comes from downloading apps through third-party sources which has been proven by multiple reports within the cybersecurity industry. In a 2023 survey, the cybersecurity firm Avast found that nearly 18% of users who downloaded modified apps from unofficial sources had security breaches, including data theft.
GBWhatsApp is a modified WhatsApp app that offers plenty of features and functions not found in the official WhatsApp, such as options for greater customization, material design trends, or two accounts. But all this functionality comes with a price — the safety of its users. It obviously does not have the end-to-end encryption that is a great characteristic of the official WhatsApp application. This is because, unlike the official application, there is no end-to-end encryption for messages and calls made through GBWhatsApp; thus they may be intercepted by evil hands in order to eavesdrop thereby making it a less secure platform when it comes to privacy of chats and calls.
Meta, WhatsApp's parent company, and security experts fight back against third-party apps. Meta clearly stated that no third-party applications such as GBWhatsApp are supported, which will also cause data leakage. In a press release from2023, a Meta spokesperson said, "Exchanging sensitive information over unofficial apps can result in exposing private content and could create security vulnerabilities. In addition, GBWhatsApp users are also receiving unsolicited messages, ads and even ransomware attacks — the risks of using this version of WhatsApp.
While these are damages, some customers nonetheless go for GBWhatsApp as it comes with extra functions. One 2022 survey from TechRadar, for example, found that more than one fifth of users opted to use GBWhatsApp because it gave them greater control over their privacy settings including making it so they wouldn't be visible as online. But all of these advantages come at an undeniable security price. In early 2024, Android Police published a study that stated more than 35% of modified WhatsApp applications such as GBWhatsApp had the potential to threaten user privacy as hackers could access personal information.
However, users usually go to third-party websites to download GBWhatsApp. User should beware while downloading the apk file from these site. Most of them can lead you not only to the GBWhatsApp app, but also malware or any harmful software. Experts say always make sure it's a reputable source.
Those who still decide to gbwhatsapp download ought to consider if the extra features are worth it given the offered security trade offs. For most people who care about their privacy and data safeguards, the official WhatsApp app is still the safest option.