Houseparty: security breach warning 🤳🔓
The company denies it, but users report that their Spotify and PayPal accounts have been hacked through Houseparty.
It has become a huge hit in recent weeks, largely thanks to voluntary or enforced quarantine during the COVID-19 outbreak. However, after many hours of video calls and games, users are panicking and deleting their accounts en masse.
Although its creators deny any security breach in the app, thousands of Houseparty users claim it has been hacked and are deleting their profiles.
If you have never heard of this app, which is already today's top trend on Twitter, let us explain. It is a very simple app that allows several users to make video calls at the same time, with a few built-in games to enjoy too. As the world has increasingly shut down because of the pandemic, Houseparty's success has grown exponentially.
In short, the app of the moment lets users have a digital house party.
The problem is that many users have said on Twitter that their Spotify, PayPal and bank accounts were hacked after they downloaded the app. Epic Games, which owns the app and is also behind hugely successful games such as Fortnite and Gears of War, denies there has been any security breach.
The truth is that there is little evidence that a hack has actually taken place. A company spokesperson told British newspaper The Sun that "we have found no evidence to suggest a link between Houseparty and the compromises of other unrelated accounts". The same source added: "As a general rule, we suggest all users choose strong passwords when creating online accounts on any platform. Use a unique password for each account, and use a password generator (…) rather than short, simple passwords."
Those statements have not been enough to reassure users, who continue to delete their accounts. One even called for a complete boycott of the app, claiming their Spotify and Snapchat accounts had been compromised. Another mentioned "fraud" and hacks to the email services on their phone. More seriously still, another user claimed they used the same email for Houseparty and PayPal, and money had been taken from the latter.
But has the app really been compromised?
Despite everything users are saying across social media, particularly on Twitter, there are several explanations for this that do not involve a mass attack on people using the app.
First, it could simply be a coincidence. Cybercrime is on the rise, and hackers usually take advantage of confusion to thrive, especially during a global pandemic.
It is also possible that many of these users have fallen victim to another scam that does not directly involve Houseparty. Of course, the hysteria typical of social media always has a part to play here. Many of these users are quoting "friends of friends", which usually suggests fake news or falsehoods being spread, intentionally or otherwise.
Put simply, if you use this app, there is no need to rush to delete it. However, if you really want to, be aware that it is not very easy. The app's creators have certainly made an effort to stop users leaving.
On iPhone
First, tap the smiley face in the top-left corner of the screen.
A new menu will appear.
Then tap the icon, also in the top-left corner.
More options will appear.
Tap "Privacy".
This is where all the privacy settings are managed.
Next, choose "Delete Account".
And prepare for a few more steps.
If you really want to delete the app, tap the red option: "Yes".
You can still go back at this stage.
Finally, you will need to enter your password.
It is usually saved on your device. Enter it and tap "OK".
You will be asked once again if you really want to leave the app.
You can still change your mind: tap "Nevermind". If you choose to delete the app, tap the red "Delete" option.
You will even see a message from the creators saying they are "heartbroken".
On Android devices and desktop
As the Houseparty app for Android and desktop does not let you delete the app or the account itself, you will need to email the support team to request this.
Send your request to support@houseparty.com with the subject "Request to Delete Account".
Simply ask for your account to be deleted immediately, and remember to include your full name, chosen username, the email address you used and your phone number. You can also ask them to send a confirmation email once your account has been deleted.
The message should be written in English!
The truth is that this app has been a great help to thousands, or millions, of people around the world, allowing them to feel closer to family and friends during the precautionary isolation most of us are experiencing.
Above all, what matters is that we all stay safe at home and online, always making the right choices!
Experts issue a warning
Houseparty was launched in 2016 by Life On Air, after its creators received $12 million from venture capital investors. Three years later, Ellen DeGeneres's game Heads Up! became part of the app.
In June 2019, Epic Games bought the app for an undisclosed sum. It was now, in 2020, that Houseparty really took off, becoming a daily companion for millions of users around the world during quarantine.
The app notifies users when their friends are online. Online security experts suggest this may not have been a coincidence; they believe the app's security is compromised, whether in its infrastructure, software or the data it stores.
Delete the app or keep using it: the choice is yours, but always stay informed about the latest developments on this subject.
