A fake WhatsApp messenger app was downloaded more than a million times from Google Play Store, before being deleted.

The scam was used to send fake vouchers offering to save hundreds of pounds at Asda, Tesco and Aldi; as long as the user followed a link to an online survey asking for personal details.

According to Reddit users, the fake app also contained adverts which had the ability to download software to users’ devices.

The ‘Update WhatsApp Messenger’ app looked like WhatsApp Inc, the ‘real’ developed firm, had created it.

The fake app creators used the same name, but instead replaced the space with a special character that looks like a space.

According to the BBC: “The subtle difference would have been practically undetectable to the average user.”

It is not the first time that Google has had to delete fake malicious apps from its Play Store.

Written by Leah Alger