WhatsApp stickers are very popular these days. They allow users to express emotions and ideas in a fun and creative way through images and animations. With loads of sticker packs available on the app store and third-party websites, many WhatsApp users are tempted to download new stickers. However, there are concerns regarding the safety of downloading stickers, especially from unknown sources.
The Potential Risks
While most sticker packs are safe, there are a few potential risks to be aware of when downloading WhatsApp stickers:
- Malware – Sticker apps could contain malware that can infect your device once installed. Malware can steal personal data, lock your device, monitor activity, etc.
- Spam – Spammy stickers with promotional content or links can be annoying. They may also lead to phishing attempts.
- Inappropriate content – Stickers with offensive, hateful or adult content could get you into trouble if shared unintentionally.
These risks are primarily associated with third-party sticker apps and websites. Stickers from official sources like WhatsApp or the Google Play Store are generally safe.
Tips to Download Stickers Safely
Here are some tips to safely download and use WhatsApp stickers:
- Use trusted sources – Stick to downloading stickers from official app stores like Google Play Store or Apple App Store. Avoid unknown third-party websites.
- Check reviews – Before downloading any third-party sticker app, check reviews to see feedback from other users.
- Verify app permissions – If an app asks for unnecessary permissions like contacts access, it may be suspicious. Only allow reasonable permissions.
- Install a malware scanner – A good malware scanner can detect and block suspicious apps or files on your device.
- Don’t click unknown links – Stickers may contain embedded links. Don’t click them if you’re unsure of the source.
- Report inappropriate stickers – You can report offensive or spammy stickers to WhatsApp to help improve sticker content.
Following these simple precautions can help avoid potential issues with new WhatsApp stickers you want to try out.
Are WhatsApp Sticker Apps Safe?
Here is a look at the safety of the various sources for WhatsApp stickers:
WhatsApp Official Stickers
The sticker packs offered within WhatsApp through the in-app sticker store are completely safe to use. These are created by WhatsApp and verified to be free of malware risks.
Google Play Store & Apple App Store
Sticker apps from the official Android and iOS app stores are generally safe if they are from a reputable developer and have good user reviews. The app stores screen apps for malware.
Third-Party Websites
Third-party websites offering WhatsApp sticker downloads involve higher risks. The stickers may not be screened for malware or inappropriate content. It’s best to avoid such sources.
| Sticker Source | Safety Level |
|---|---|
| WhatsApp Official Stickers | Very Safe |
| Google Play Store, Apple App Store | Mostly Safe |
| Third-Party Websites | Potentially Risky |
Signs of a Malicious Sticker App
Watch out for these red flags that may indicate a sticker app is malicious:
- Asks for unnecessary permissions
- From an unknown developer
- Contains ads or spam content
- Bad reviews mentioning malware or privacy issues
- App name, developer name, or content seems suspicious
- App not available on the official app stores
Avoid installing apps with any of these signs. Stick to trusted sources like Google Play Store and read user reviews before installing.
What to Do If You Installed a Malicious Sticker App
If you have already installed a malicious sticker app on your device, take these steps:
- Uninstall the app immediately
- Run a malware scan with a reputable anti-virus app
- Check your other apps for suspicious activity or crashes
- Reset any app permissions changed by the sticker app
- Change passwords for sensitive accounts if concerned about data theft
- Factory reset device if malicious activity persists after uninstalling
Stay vigilant about signs of malware like pop-ups, crashes, laggy performance, or unauthorized activities after removing the bad app.
Are WhatsApp Web Stickers Safe?
WhatsApp Web is the web browser version of WhatsApp accessed on a PC or laptop. Here are some key points about its sticker safety:
- Stickers from WhatsApp Web are safe as they sync from the mobile app
- You cannot install third-party stickers directly on WhatsApp Web
- Stickers must be installed first on the paired mobile device to appear on Web
- This limits risk as malicious stickers cannot be directly installed
So in summary, WhatsApp Web inherits the safety profile of stickers on the connected mobile device and does not pose incremental risks.
Risks of Custom & Animated Stickers
WhatsApp allows using custom stickers made by users and animated sticker apps. Here are the potential risks:
- Custom stickers may contain inappropriate hidden imagery not visible on thumbnail
- Animated stickers can conceal malicious code behind the animation
- Custom stickers shared by contacts could have embedded phishing links or malware
- Higher risks if custom stickers are made using unknown third-party apps
To avoid issues, thoroughly preview custom stickers before sharing and be cautious about animated stickers from unofficial sources.
Tips for Safe Custom Stickers
- Review full sticker image before sharing, not just thumbnail
- Use reputable apps like WhatsApp or trusted third-party apps for creating custom stickers
- Look for hidden links or content in custom stickers received from others
- Disable auto-download to manually review received custom stickers first
Risks of Sticker Packs from Messaging Apps
Some messaging apps like Telegram, Line, or WeChat offer in-app stickers. Here are the risks if you try to use them on WhatsApp:
- Sticker apps from other messaging platforms may detect WhatsApp and access data
- Stickers with external links can lead to phishing or malicious sites
- Sticker apps may link to messaging app they are made for and request permissions
- Higher risks from apps not designed specifically for WhatsApp
Ideally, only use sticker apps designed for WhatsApp and avoid sticker packs from other messaging platforms for safety.
Conclusion
To conclude, WhatsApp stickers are generally safe if you take some basic precautions. Always download stickers from trusted sources like the official WhatsApp sticker store or reputable app stores. Thoroughly review custom stickers or animated stickers before using. Avoid third-party websites for sticker downloads. With a bit of caution, you can safely enjoy the wide range of fun and expressive WhatsApp stickers available.