WhatsApp has urged its 1.5 billion users to upgrade the app after the Facebook-owned platform discovered a vulnerability that allowed spyware to be installed on users' phones via the app's phone call function.

Whatsapp confirmed that a “select number” of users had been victims and that the bug affects all but the latest version of the app on iOS and Android. The attack involved cyber hackers using WhatsApp's voice calling a function to ring a device. The advanced surveillance software would then be installed, even if that call was not picked up.

How do I install the new WhatsApp update?

• Some phones will receive a notification message from WhatsApp, urging you to update the software to the latest available version.
• Not all customers will, however.
• If you have an iPhone, go to the App Store and click updates. When you find Whatsapp, tap the update button next to the app. Your phone should then update.
• If you own an Android phone, click on Play Store, then on the menu button.
• Under My apps and games, tap update next to WhatsApp Messenger

WhatsApp has urged its 1.5 billion users to upgrade the app after the Facebook-owned platform discovered a vulnerability that allowed spyware to be installed on users' phones via the app's phone call function.

Whatsapp confirmed that a “select number” of users had been victims and that the bug affects all but the latest version of the app on iOS and Android. The attack involved cyber hackers using WhatsApp's voice calling a function to ring a device. The advanced surveillance software would then be installed, even if that call was not picked up.

How do I install the new WhatsApp update?

• Some phones will receive a notification message from WhatsApp, urging you to update the software to the latest available version.
• Not all customers will, however.
• If you have an iPhone, go to the App Store and click updates. When you find Whatsapp, tap the update button next to the app. Your phone should then update.
• If you own an Android phone, click on Play Store, then on the menu button.
• Under My apps and games, tap update next to WhatsApp Messenger