2024-08-22 16:21:39
WhatsApp is developing a way for users to block messages from unknown contacts. What is known about the new feature.
The popular messenger WhatsApp is currently testing a function that allows users to protect themselves from annoying spam messages. As the information portal “WABetaInfo” reports, a preliminary version of the application for Android phones includes a function that allows messages from unknown contacts to be blocked.
If the option is activated in the settings, WhatsApp automatically blocks such messages and thus protects its users from unwanted or potentially harmful content.
A positive side effect: activating the function automatically reduces the amount of data that WhatsApp has to process. This means that the application uses less energy and saves the device’s battery. It also reduces the risk that malicious content could affect the phone’s performance and memory.
WhatsApp already allows you to mute calls from unknown phone numbers. Users can activate this function in the messenger’s settings under the “Calls” option.
The “Advanced” option will soon include the option to block messages from unknown contacts. In the same menu, WhatsApp had already introduced another function to protect against malicious software: users can deactivate the link preview in chats.
When you enable this feature, WhatsApp will no longer generate link previews when sending links to other people in order to protect the user’s IP address, which can be determined by websites via the link preview.
According to WhatsApp, the activated option has no influence on links that the user receives. A link preview is still visible, but this cannot be used to find out your own IP address.