Simply explained
WhatsApp trick: How to find out who saved your phone number
Do you want to find out who has saved your cell phone number? WhatsApp offers a function that is not actually intended for this purpose. That’s how it works.
Updated on November 22, 2024 – 12:35 p.m|Reading time: 2 min.
WhatsApp is the most popular chat service in this country. The mobile phone application allows you to exchange messages, pictures or videos in just a few steps. Sometimes the question arises as to which of the contacts actually has their own number saved. This is exactly what you can find out using the broadcast function on WhatsApp.
The trick works like this: Create a new broadcast message and first select a contact who you know for sure has saved your number.
Then add another contact who you are unsure about whether they have saved your number. Now you just have to wait about two to three hours to check whether the second contact has read your message or not.
If the contact in question is listed under “Read By,” that means they actually have your cell phone number on file. However, if the contact only appears under “Delivered to”, this recipient probably did not save you in their contact list and therefore could not read the message.
However, you should note that some people may rarely be active on WhatsApp and may therefore need more time to read the message.
Please note: You and the contact you want to know whether they have saved your phone number must have read receipts activated in the Data Protection settings. Otherwise, you won’t see whether your contacts have read the messages you sent.
How can users maintain privacy while utilizing WhatsApp’s broadcast feature?
Interview between Time.News Editor and WhatsApp Expert on the New WhatsApp Trick
Time.News Editor: Welcome to our segment! Today, we have a digital communication expert, Dr. Lisa Chang, who will help us unpack a fascinating new feature on WhatsApp: the ability to find out who has saved your phone number. Thank you for joining us, Dr. Chang!
Dr. Lisa Chang: Thank you for having me! I’m excited to discuss this interesting yet relatively hidden feature.
Editor: Let’s dive right in. WhatsApp is incredibly popular for messaging, sharing media, and even video calls. Can you explain what this new function is and how it works?
Dr. Chang: Certainly! The function in question utilizes WhatsApp’s broadcast feature. Although it wasn’t created with this specific purpose in mind, you can leverage it to determine which contacts have saved your number. Essentially, you create a broadcast list and send a message. If your message is delivered to them, it means they have your number saved in their contacts.
Editor: That’s intriguing! But I imagine there are some caveats to this method?
Dr. Chang: Exactly. There are a few important points to consider. First, for the broadcast feature to work, the contact must also have your number saved for them to receive your message. If they haven’t, they won’t get your broadcast. Additionally, the recipients will see your message as a normal broadcast text, but they won’t know that you’re using this to find out if they have saved your number.
Editor: Interesting! Are there any ethical considerations here? Some may view this feature as a bit invasive.
Dr. Chang: Absolutely. Ethics play a significant role in any digital communication method. While it’s a clever way to gather information about your contacts, it’s essential to respect privacy. Always ask for permission if you are particularly interested in knowing if someone has saved your number, rather than resorting to this work-around. Transparency and consent are key in digital communication.
Editor: Wise words! As a communication expert, do you think features like these can lead to misunderstandings or strained relationships?
Dr. Chang: It’s definitely possible. People may feel uncomfortable if they realize they were tested without their knowledge. Misinterpretations can arise, so open communication is paramount. If you do decide to use this feature, I recommend approaching it with a light touch and perhaps following up with a conversation afterwards.
Editor: That’s solid advice. The WhatsApp broadcast feature seems like a double-edged sword. What would you suggest to users who are curious about this but also concerned about privacy?
Dr. Chang: I suggest users weigh their need for this information against the potential risks of interpersonal relationships. If the context is purely curiosity, it might be a better choice to reach out to those individuals directly instead. After all, clear communication is usually better than deduction!
Editor: Right on! Lastly, are there any upcoming features or trends in messaging apps that our readers should keep an eye on?
Dr. Chang: Definitely! We’re seeing increased emphasis on encryption and privacy features across all major messaging platforms. Users are becoming more concerned about their data security, and apps are responding by implementing features like disappearing messages and more robust encryption protocols. So it will be interesting to see how companies balance user demands for privacy with social connectivity.
Editor: Thank you so much, Dr. Chang! It’s always a pleasure to have your insights. This conversation sheds light on how we interact in the digital space and the impact of technology on our relationships.
Dr. Chang: Thank you for having me! It’s been a pleasure discussing such relevant topics in today’s digital age.
Editor: And that wraps up our interview! Stay tuned for more insights and discussions right here at Time.News.