Users of the Windows version of WhatsApp should quickly update their application. Meta has discovered the existence of a gaping flaw in its popular messaging application, and the risks are real if you don't update your software. The critical flaw, identified as CVE-2025-3040, allowed hackers to potentially take control of a machine by sending a simple booby-trapped attachment. It was discovered by a researcher as part of Meta's Bug Bounty program, which encourages cybersecurity specialists to Report a bug or vulnerability.
How can a simple attachment be so dangerous?
The flaw relies on a particularly insidious technique that modifies the way WhatsApp perceives an attachment. Attackers create a malicious file, such as an executable program (.exe), capable of installing harmful software. They then modify the information associated with the file (its "MIME type") to make it appear as a completely harmless document, such as an image (.jpg) or a PDF file.
When the user receives the file in WhatsApp for Windows, the application displays the icon of an image or document. This presentation encourages you to click with confidence, and when you double-click to open it, Windows does not trust the displayed icon. The operating system looks at the actual file extension and will execute the malicious code.
While the user must manually open the malicious attachment, the fact that it is hidden can fool many users. This "malicious mismatch could have led the recipient to inadvertently execute arbitrary code rather than view the attachment," explains Meta. In concrete terms, one can imagine that the malicious code could be used to distribute ransomware, spyware, or even take remote control and attempt to spread to WhatsApp contacts.
The solution? Update WhatsApp as soon as possible
Fortunately, Meta has already started rolling out an update to protect users. The problem affects all versions of WhatsApp for Windows prior to 2.2450.6. You should therefore check that a higher version is installed on your device by going to Settings then "About". If an update is available on your computer, a link will offer you to download the latest version. It is also possible to update Update WhatsApp via the Microsoft Store or by visiting the messaging service's official website.
Very popular, WhatsApp is regularly the target of hackers who try to exploit potential vulnerabilities. These most often concern mobile versions, while Meta's service has nearly 3 billion users. Whether on Android, iOS, or Windows, the most important thing is to keep your application up to date via official stores (Play Store, App Store, or Microsoft Store).
Finally, you should always be wary of unexpected attachments, even if they come from a known contact. Never open an attachment if you are not absolutely sure of its origin and legitimacy. You can also disable automatic downloading of photos, videos, and documents for added security.
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