Whatsapp users are being targeted by hackers with the promise of an upgrade of the popular messaging app called 'Whatsapp Gold'.

If a message pops up on your phone saying something similar to this, don't follow the link provided:

"Hey. Finally Secret Whatsapp golden version has been leaked. This version is used only by big celebrities. Now we can use it too".

The fake app (supposedly only previously available to celebrities) boasts of providing extra features such as video chats and the tantalising option to delete messages from people's phones after you've sent them. Instead, unsuspecting users will only be infecting their mobiles with malware.

This could allow cybercriminals to infiltrate your phone and access your data, as well as track your location and activities.

This is the but the latest version of the scam that previously offered malware disguised as apps such as 'Whatsapp Plus'.

Not only that, the authentic Whatsapp will ban you from using the service if it detects unauthorised software of this nature. The Irish Independent notes that its website FAQ says:

"The developers of WhatsApp Plus have no relationship to WhatsApp, and we do not support WhatsApp Plus."