A fake WhatsApp clone is showing up before the real version on the Play Store

The VergeOct 16, 2026Oct 16, 2026, 11:02 AM AST

A fake WhatsApp app appeared in a sponsored Play Store slot above the real one and has passed 500,000 downloads. Its listing copies WhatsApp's icon, screenshots and description, and the developer has nothing else on the store. Android Authority suggests it may be using Play's Early Access program, which can hide public reviews that would warn people.

Summary written with AI by HowTechMoves, based on reporting by The Verge.

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