WhatsApp Introduces New Safety Feature, Warns of Suspicious Groups
WhatsApp’s new Safety Overview feature alerts users when joining an unknown group chat and offers key details to make an informed choice.
In its continued efforts to enhance user privacy and curb digital scams, WhatsApp has introduced a new security feature called ‘Safety Overview’. This update is aimed at preventing users from unknowingly joining suspicious or unfamiliar group chats created by unknown contacts. It is part of a broader initiative by WhatsApp to improve user safety and reduce scam-related incidents on the platform.
Key Features of Safety Overview & Other Security Enhancements
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Group Chat Safety with Safety Overview
The new Safety Overview feature activates when a user is added to a group by someone who isn’t in their contact list. Instead of immediately opening the chat, WhatsApp presents a summary screen that displays vital details like the group name, its creator, number of members, and the date it was created. This helps users make informed decisions. -
Muting Notifications for Unfamiliar Groups
Notifications from such groups remain muted by default until the user chooses to stay. This reduces disruptions and prevents immediate exposure to potentially harmful messages. -
User-Controlled Exit Option
If the group appears suspicious, users can leave it instantly without ever opening the chat or seeing its content. If it seems familiar, they can choose to open the chat for further context. -
Context for Unknown Individual Chats
WhatsApp is also testing a potentially new feature that provides users with more context when chatting with individuals not saved in their contact list. This could include name suggestions or relevant details to help assess the authenticity of the contact. -
Recent Anti-Scam Measures
As part of its anti-scam efforts, WhatsApp has banned close to 6.8 lakh accounts linked to fraudulent activities. These included major scam operations in countries like Cambodia, where tools like ChatGPT were misused to run scams involving fake job offers, crypto fraud, and bogus rental services. -
Existing Privacy Tools for Added Security
WhatsApp offers several in-app safety features, including:-
Privacy Checkup: Manage who can view your profile, contact you, or add you to groups.
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Two-step verification: Adds an extra layer of security to prevent account hijacking.
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Block and Report Options: Immediately take action against suspicious messages or group invites.
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Context Cards: Show background info for messages from unknown numbers.
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Silence Unknown Callers: Automatically mute spam or scam calls.
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Always use the official WhatsApp app to avoid third-party versions that can compromise your data.
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WhatsApp’s Safety Overview is a thoughtful addition to its growing suite of anti-scam tools, offering users more control, awareness, and safety when engaging with unknown contacts or groups. Combined with features like two-step verification, privacy checkups, and call silencing, WhatsApp is clearly taking a proactive stance in safeguarding its users from online threats. As digital scams become increasingly sophisticated, such tools are essential in helping users stay informed and secure while using the platform.
Tips to Avoid Scams
WhatsApp urges users to be cautious when interacting with unknown contacts, especially if the message promises quick money or seems too good to be true. Before responding to any such messages, it is important to pause and assess the genuineness of the conversation.
To help users stay protected, WhatsApp recommends the following safety measures:
- Privacy checkup: Customize your privacy settings to control who can contact you, who can see you online, and who can add you to groups.
- Two-step verification: Enable two-step verification to protect against account takeovers.
- Use the official app: Ensure you are using the official app to avoid fake versions that may compromise your account.
