New WhatsApp Bug Lets Hackers Launch Malware via Fake Attachments (CVE-2025-30401)


 

A newly discovered critical security flaw in WhatsApp Desktop for Windows is raising alarms in the cybersecurity world. Tracked as CVE-2025-30401, the bug allows attackers to disguise malicious code as harmless file attachments, tricking users into executing malware with a single click.

What’s the Threat?

The vulnerability affects all WhatsApp Desktop for Windows versions prior to 2.2450.6. It stems from a flaw in how the app mismatches MIME types and file extensions — essentially, what the app shows you doesn’t match how the file is executed by your system.

For example, a file may appear to be an image (.jpg) in the chat interface, but behind the scenes, it might actually be an executable file (.exe) designed to run malicious code.

Technical Breakdown

Here’s what makes this bug so dangerous:

Risk FactorDetails
CVE IDCVE-2025-30401
SeverityHigh (CVSS 3.1)
ImpactArbitrary code execution
Affected VersionsWhatsApp Desktop for Windows versions before 2.2450.6
Attack VectorRemote via malicious file attachments
Exploit PrerequisitesUser must manually open attachment

The app displays the file type based on MIME, but opens the file based on its extension — a recipe for disaster. Cybercriminals can exploit this mismatch to trick users into launching executable files disguised as images or documents.

Why It Matters: Human Trust is the Weak Link

In a real-world attack, the hacker sends what looks like an innocent image or PDF. When the user clicks it from within WhatsApp, the file bypasses suspicion and silently executes code that could steal data, install ransomware, or hijack the system.

Even more concerning: in group chats, this exploit could hit multiple users simultaneously, turning a single malicious message into a widespread compromise.

A Pattern of Vulnerabilities

This isn’t WhatsApp’s first rodeo. Back in 2024, researchers uncovered another flaw that enabled the execution of Python and PHP scripts without user consent. Messaging platforms are increasingly under scrutiny as attackers pivot to exploiting trust-based ecosystems where users routinely open shared content.

How to Stay Safe

If you’re using WhatsApp on Windows, take action immediately:

  • Update to Version 2.2450.6 or later

  • Avoid opening attachments from unknown or unexpected sources

  • Verify the true nature of files before opening them

  • Use endpoint protection and a trusted antivirus

Final Thoughts

This vulnerability is a stark reminder that even mainstream, widely-used apps can harbor hidden dangers. As threat actors grow more creative in exploiting user behavior and interface quirks, staying ahead means keeping software updated and staying informed.

Cybersecurity is no longer just the IT team’s job — it’s everyone’s responsibility.

Location: New York, NY, USA

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