Users of Viber are receiving false messages stating that this messaging app will become paid as of next Saturday. This information is not true. The Center for Countering Disinformation under the National Security and Defense Council reports this in their Telegram channel.

"Users are receiving messages that 'next Saturday, Viber will become paid.' The text urges to 'forward this message to 10 contacts to keep the messenger free,' adding that afterward, 'the logo will turn blue.' This is an old fake that has been circulating online since at least 2018. Its text has repeatedly 'revived' in new waves of messages. The message contains no specific dates, official sources, or confirmation from Viber. Phrases like 'next Saturday' without a specified date are included to simulate urgency," the statement reads.

It is important to note that no messenger (Viber, WhatsApp, Telegram, etc.) will become paid without an official announcement from the company. This message contradicts logic: Viber cannot automatically charge fees if the user has not provided their payment details.

The Center for Countering Disinformation emphasizes that such messages serve as a kind of 'trust test.' The collected data may be used to prepare disinformation campaigns or phishing attacks.