Cross-mobile messaging platform WhatsApp has confirmed messages circulating on its networking claiming the service will become chargeable is a hoax.
App developer also says closure message is fake too
A number of PC Advisor readers contacted us after they received messages from friends that use the mobile app claiming only 'frequent' users or those that chat to at least 10 people over the service would be able to send messages for free.
"WhatsApp is going to cost us money soon. The only way that it will stay free is if you are a frequent user," reads the message.
It then tells WhatApp users they must send the chain letter to 10 people to make the WhatsApp logo turn red to indicate they are a frequent user.
"We have been getting a lot of emails and questions from you about this chain letter," the firm said on its blog.
"Please understand that this is a hoax and there is no truth to it. While we are flattered that we made it to Hoax Slayer [website aimed at highlighting internet hoaxes], we would rather work on cool new features instead of debunking silly stories like these ."
WhatsApp uses a handset's Wi-Fi or a mobile data connection to send messages containing text, pictures, audio or video files to other WhatsApp users. WhatsApp is available for devices running Google Android as well iPhones, Nokia handsets and BlackBerry's. There's no limit on the number of messages that can be sent, or the amount of characters that can be used. This means those with a mobile tariff with unlimited mobile data or a Wi-Fi network in regular reach, can save money on SMS and MMS.
Furthermore, WhatsApp also said it has identified another hoax message claiming the service will shut down on January 28.
The chain letter reads: Message from Jim Balsamic (CEO of Whatsapp). We have had an over usage of user names on WhatsApp Messenger. We are requesting all users to forward this message to their entire contact list".
"If you do not forward this message, we will take it as your account is invalid and it will be deleted within the next 48 hours. Please DO NOT ignore this message or WhatsApp will no longer recognise your activation," the message continues.
It then instructs mobile users tat if they wish to re-activate their account they will be subject to a charge of 25.00 (although which currency is not specified) will be added to their monthly bill.
Comments
Nicky said: I have just discovered Whatsapp can anyone tell me if there is a limit to what/how often you use it, for example do we have a monthly limit : )
Muhammednawaz9 said: How come it don't work on iPod stil a smart phone
Smokeyvile said: I keep getting these damn msges on my phone... So annoying n what should have given it away was the currency...
David Vitalis said: i just deleted it and and told them if they sent it to me again i would delete them
Caiwen92 said: Hw the logo become red colour?? We wan free of charge..
Marshy74 said: Also Google is such a useful tool we all have at our fingertips these days. It only takes 30 seconds to almost confirm anything!
Marshy74 said: I can't believe anybody with a little bit of sense can fall for these stupid, badly written chain messages. I've had it forwarded by so many people who I believed to be intelligent. Who would believe a message like that without any terms and conditions etc and how did people think whatsapp would be able to charge on their mobile tariff?
Carpediemrs64 said: I can't believe I fell for it twice. I guess that makes me gullible. Oops!
Mistablitz said: Who cares anyway in December were all dead according to the bastard Mayans
ANON said: No! You don't understand what it says!. You may have to pay for the app but not for the actual messages you send or receive
Muhitr said: Actually your one of the lucky people as there was a period it was available to download for free......
Zee, NY said: Ripped you off LOOOL if u consider 59p or £1 to be a rip off you should consider getting a job!
norman_bates said: I get that it is a hoax, I received two of these messages actually. It's the same sort of thing that has been going round facebook for years. Before long it will circulate round kik and the other social networks. Can someone answer one thing about Whatsapp for me. I downloaded it for my iPhone 4S and it didn't cost me a penny, and I got it from the AppStore as my phone isn't jail broken (and never will be) however everyone else is having to pay for it. Was there a special 'freebie' day on it or something or is it that you can have it free for iPhone 4S where as older models have to have a paid version?
Jayjae49 said: Can't believe I fell For it and I got forwarding it lol!
Eriqaca said: maybe...I didn't have to pay for app on Android.
Carrie-ann_skinner said: Hi Ian. Be safe in the knowledge you weren't ripped off. WhatsApp for iPhone is subject to a one-off charge to download it where as Android users can download it for free but after a year will be charged £1.25 to use it. It's not this charge that has been called into question. Its the fact a message being sent among WhatsApp users is claiming unless you continuosly chat with 10 or more users you be somehow 'charged' for using the app. The hoaxers didn't specify the details!
Ian, Exeter said: Does that mean that Apple ripped me off by charging me for the app ?