What is the Martineli virus in WhatsApp?

What is the Martineli virus in WhatsApp - briefly?

The Martinelli virus is a hoax message circulating on WhatsApp, falsely claiming that a dangerous virus will crash your phone if you receive a message from a contact named Martinelli.

What is the Martineli virus in WhatsApp - in detail?

The Martinelli virus, also known as the "Martinelli Challenge," is a hoax message that has been circulating on WhatsApp and other social media platforms. The message claims that there is an upcoming video called "Martinelli" that will supposedly crash your phone or cause it to explode if you watch it. This claim is entirely false, and the Martinelli virus does not exist in any form capable of causing harm to your device.

The hoax originated from a Brazilian television program in 2018, which warned viewers about a dangerous video that would allegedly destroy their phones. The misinformation spread rapidly due to the use of alarming language and the suggestion that sharing the message could protect others from this non-existent threat.

WhatsApp users should be cautious about forwarding such messages without verifying their authenticity. It is essential to remain informed and skeptical of sensational claims, especially those that encourage immediate action without providing credible evidence. By staying vigilant and relying on reputable sources for information, users can help prevent the spread of misinformation and maintain a safe digital environment.