GB WhatsApp is a popular modded version of the official WhatsApp messenger app. It offers many additional features and customization options compared to the original WhatsApp. However, due to its unofficial nature, there have been concerns over its safety and legal compliance. This has led to the rise of many GB WhatsApp clones and fakes that can compromise user data and privacy. Identifying the original and official GB WhatsApp is important to have a safe messaging experience.
Background on GB WhatsApp
GB WhatsApp is a modded version of WhatsApp developed by a senior XDA member named Atnfas Hoakip. It is based on the official WhatsApp app but with many added features and customizations. Some key highlights of GB WhatsApp include:
- Ability to customize chat bubbles, app theme, and notification bar.
- Increased media sharing limit of up to 50 MB.
- Built-in app lock and hiding last seen options.
- Ability to auto-reply and schedule messages.
- Extra privacy controls and anti-ban features.
Due to these additional capabilities, GB WhatsApp gained huge popularity among WhatsApp users. However, since it is not officially approved by WhatsApp/Facebook, there are risks associated with using GB WhatsApp. These include the possibility of getting banned by WhatsApp for violating their terms of service. There are also privacy concerns as unofficial apps may steal user data.
This led to the emergence of many fake versions that try to imitate the original GB WhatsApp. These fakes often contain malware, ads, and other undesirable behaviors. Identifying the official GB WhatsApp is important to have a good messaging experience.
How to identify original GB WhatsApp
Here are some tips to identify whether a GB WhatsApp app is original or fake:
Check the developer name
The original GB WhatsApp is developed by Atnfas Hoakip (or Gbmods). Before installing any GB WA mod, check the name of the developer. Fake versions will show other names instead of the original developer.
Verify download source
The official download page for GB WhatsApp is gbmods.com or gbwhatsapp.com. Avoid downloading APKs from any other unauthorized sources, even if they claim to be the original GBWA. Stick to the official site only.
Compare version numbers
Original GBWA clearly mentions the current version number like v12.2, v11.30 etc. Verify this against the latest version on the official website. Fake ones may show inflated version numbers.
Check for banned words
Due to legal issues, original GB WhatsApp does not include trademarked terms like WhatsApp, Facebook, GBWA etc. in the app name. Fakes often use these banned words.
Analyze app permissions
The official app only asks for permissions required for messaging functionality. Fake versions often demand additional access like logs, contacts etc. without any valid reason.
Join official GBWA groups
Join official groups and channels of GB WhatsApp on Telegram. This will give access to latest announcements, updates, and direct downloads from the developer. Useful to cross-check if any new update is genuine.
| Signs of Original GB WhatsApp | Signs of Fake GB WhatsApp |
|---|---|
| Developed by Atnfas Hoakip/Gbmods | Other developer names |
| Downloaded from gbmods.com | Unknown download sources |
| Genuine version numbering | Inflated version numbers |
| No trademarked words in app name | Uses banned words like WhatsApp, GBWA etc. |
| Only asks for required permissions | Requests unnecessary app access |
This table summarizes the key points to check when identifying original vs fake GB WhatsApp.
Understanding risks of fake GB WhatsApp
Using a fake or cloned GB WhatsApp comes with many security and privacy risks including:
- Malware attacks – Fakes can contain dangerous malware that hacks into your phone.
- Data theft – They steal your personal data like contacts, messages, files etc.
- Spam and ads – Irrelevant ads and links are used to earn revenue.
- Ban risks – Modified apps violate WhatsApp policies and can get you banned.
- No support – No updates or support are provided by unknown developers.
In some cases, fake versions also lack the promised features of original GBWA. It is better to avoid such mods to keep your account safe.
Steps to safely download original GB WhatsApp
Follow these steps to securely download the official GB WhatsApp app for Android:
- Open the Chrome browser on your Android device.
- Visit the official website – gbmods.com or gbwhatsapp.com.
- Scroll down and click the download button for the latest GBWA version.
- Wait for the APK file to download. Do not install any app yet.
- Go to Chrome settings > Site Settings > Install Unknown Apps.
- Allow installation from the GBWhatsApp site.
- Open your phone’s file manager and find the GBWA APK file.
- Tap the file. When prompted, press Install to start the installation.
- Accept requested permissions. The app will be installed on your device.
This process ensures you are downloading the app directly from the official website and avoids any risks of using third-party stores.
Conclusion
Identifying and using the original GB WhatsApp is crucial for a smooth messaging experience. Always verify the developer name, download source, version numbers and app behavior before installing any mod. Stick to downloads only from the official site like gbmods.com to get guaranteed updates and safety. Avoid any versions from unknown sources, even if they claim enhanced features. Prioritize your privacy and security by choosing carefully.