WhatsApp It is, without a doubt, the most popular instant messaging application in Spain. For this reason, it has become almost unavoidable that we have it installed on our mobile phones. If we do not want to be left incommunicado, we have to accept the form of communication that the majority has chosen. So, for better or worse, this platform is part of our daily life and we have to be aware of it. the dangers it entails.
A vulnerability in your mobile security
One of the methods that the hackers often use to infect a terminal isHide a Trojan inside a seemingly harmless file, such as an image or video. When the user downloads this file, the Trojan is activated and can perform harmful actions without the user’s knowledge. These actions may include steal personal informationcontrol the device remotely or install more malware.
As the reader can guess, it is extremely dangerous to download one of these malicious files on our device. However, when someone sends us a meme or a funny video on WhatsApp, it is downloaded automatically, without us explicitly requesting it. It is afunctionality that WhatsApp sets by default, but that can open the door to a cyber attack.
Also, when We allow WhatsApp to download all files automaticallywe are allowing our device to be filled with endless memes, videos and images that do not interest us, which not only consumes storage space, but can also slow down the smartphone performance. If you want to know how to remove this feature, follow the next steps:
- Click on the icon of the three little dots in the top right corner of your smartphone.
- Choose Settings.
- Click on Storage and Data.
- At the bottom of the sliding menu is the section Automatic downloadwhich includes three tabs: Download over mobile data, Download over Wi-Fi, and While roaming.
- Click on each of these tabs and disable options Photos, Audio, Videos, and Documents. This will prevent these types of files from being automatically downloaded to your device, regardless of the connection method.
- Please note that the voice messages that are sent to you by WhatsApp will always be excluded from the Audio option and will always will be downloaded automatically.
With this setting, you will prevent WhatsApp from automatically downloading files, regaining control of your storage space and preventing your mobile device from being infected with a malicious file that could compromise your securityTaking these precautions is essential to keeping your personal information safe and ensuring your device operates efficiently.
From now on, whenever you want to view or play a file you have received via WhatsApp, all you have to do is Click on it to download it on your device. But remember to be especially careful with memes and funny videos that are sent to us through WhatsApp groups in which many unknown people participate. This is often the gateway for many malicious files that can put security at risk from your device.