Hajra Naz
Spam messages have become more common with real-time communication, and now, malicious actors have more tools than in the early 90s. Back then, just clicking a link could install harmful software on your phone.
While WhatsApp already offers tools to reduce spam, a new feature is coming to help users verify the source of links (even hidden ones) before clicking them.
In the 2.23.16.6 update for Android, WhatsApp introduced safety tools to manage messages from unknown contacts. When you receive a message from an unfamiliar sender, a safety screen will appear, allowing you to block or report the person. This screen also gives details about the sender’s profile, country code, and more.
These updates improve security, but WhatsApp has faced criticism for privacy and data collection. According to WABetaInfo, the new safety feature will be included in the upcoming WhatsApp beta for Android 2.24.20.28.
WhatsApp is enhancing its link search feature by introducing a more user-friendly option called “Safety Screen.” This new interface will guide users on how to search links and provide more details about them. It will even allow users to search for a text message on its own.
WhatsApp is improving this feature to help users identify harmful links more easily. This update comes after past security issues, like the 2019 spyware vulnerability. Spyware could be installed through a WhatsApp call, even if the call wasn’t answered.
The release date is not confirmed yet. The feature is still being developed and will be launched later. If you want to try it early, download the latest WhatsApp beta from the Google Play Store. Just remember, that beta features might change before the final version is released.
