WhatsApp says it has notified around 200 users who were tricked into installing a malicious fake version of the chat app that contained spyware. The messaging app has accused Italian spyware maker SIO of creating a fake version of its messaging app for iPhones. In its announcement, WhatsApp said that it plans to “send a formal legal demand to stop any such malicious activity to this spyware firm.” The vast majority of the targets are located in Italy.

All the affected users have been logged out and have been recommended to uninstall the malware-laced apps and download the official WhatsApp app. WhatsApp did not reveal who was targeted in these attacks.

The tech giant said it's also taking action against Asigint, an Italian subsidiary of spyware company SIO, for allegedly creating a counterfeit version of WhatsApp.

On its website, the company advertises solutions to law enforcement agencies, government organizations, and police and intelligence agencies for monitoring suspect activities, gathering intelligence, or conducting covert operations.

The development comes a little over a month after a Greek court sentenced Tal Dilian, the founder of the Intellexa Consortium, and three associates, Sara Hamou, Felix Bitzios, and Yiannis Lavranos, to prison for their role in the illegal use of the vendor's Predator spyware to target politicians, business leaders, and journalists in the country.