SORVEPOTEL Malware Shows Why Africa’s Reliance on WhatsApp Is a Risk

Cyber threat

In an article published on Hacker News by Ravie Lakshmanan on October 3, 2025, researchers warned about a new malware named SORVEPOTEL. The malware spreads fast through WhatsApp Web on Windows systems. Unlike ransomware or spyware, this campaign is built for speed and disruption. It shows how attackers use trusted tools to launch large-scale attacks.

How the Malware Works

SORVEPOTEL starts with a phishing message. Victims receive a message from a trusted contact on WhatsApp. The message includes a ZIP file that looks like a receipt or health app file.

When the victim opens the ZIP, it contains a Windows shortcut (LNK) file. This shortcut silently runs a PowerShell script. The script downloads the main malware payload from a fake site such as sorvetenopoate[.]com.

Once active, the malware copies itself to the Windows Startup folder. This ensures it runs again after the computer restarts. It then connects to a command-and-control server for more instructions.

If WhatsApp Web is open, the malware sends the same ZIP file to all contacts and groups. This fast spreading leads to accounts being suspended or banned for spamming.

Who Is Being Targeted

According to Trend Micro, the malware has hit 477 victims. Most cases are in Brazil, with 457 infections confirmed. The main targets are in:

• Government

• Public service

• Manufacturing

• Technology

• Education

• Construction

The focus on desktop WhatsApp use shows that businesses are the primary targets. Attackers are testing ways to use social apps to disrupt enterprise systems.

Why Africa Must Pay Attention

This warning is not only for Brazil. It is equally significant for Africa, where WhatsApp is one of the most widely used platforms. Both individuals and government agencies rely on it for daily communication. This makes the region vulnerable to similar malware campaigns.

The SORVEPOTEL case should be seen as a wake-up call. Africa already faced high risks with spyware such as Pegasus. Now, self-spreading malware on WhatsApp could disrupt government services, education systems, and businesses across the continent. Countries that depend heavily on WhatsApp for official communication must prepare to defend against this type of attack.

How OSRS Can Help

OGUN Security Research and Strategic Consulting LLC (OSRS) helps organizations defend against threats like SORVEPOTEL. Our team provides:

• Cyber awareness training to stop phishing.

• Endpoint monitoring to block PowerShell abuse.

• Incident response planning to reduce damage from fast-moving attacks.

• Threat intelligence services to track new malware campaigns.

We also guide enterprises in building secure communication policies. This ensures staff do not rely on risky platforms for business communication.

Final Thoughts

SORVEPOTEL is a warning sign. Hackers are now turning trusted apps like WhatsApp into weapons for disruption. The attack shows the need for strong security awareness, endpoint controls, and proactive defense.

For Africa, this is a critical moment. WhatsApp is deeply integrated into society, and malware like SORVEPOTEL could spread rapidly with devastating impact. Just like with Pegasus, governments and businesses must treat this as a matter of national and organizational security.

With OSRS by your side, you can stay ahead of emerging threats and keep your business secure.

About the Author

Dr. Sunday Oludare Ogunlana is a cybersecurity scholar-practitioner and founder of ÒGÙN Security Research and Strategic Consulting LLC (OSRS). With over 15 years of experience, he advises on cyber defense, AI governance, and national security strategy.