WhatsApp Boosts Security with New Anti-Scam Tools
WhatsApp is rolling out new features designed to enhance user security and combat the increasing threat of scams. These updates aim to provide users with more control and awareness, helping them stay safe while using the platform.
Silence Unknown Callers
One of the key features is the ability to silence calls from unknown numbers. This feature gives you more privacy and control over your incoming calls. When you enable this calls from numbers not in your contacts will be silenced and sent to voicemail. You can then check the voicemail to see if the call was important without being disturbed by potential spammers or scammers. This reduces interruptions and the risk of answering unwanted calls. To use this go to Settings then Privacy and then Calls.
Enhanced Account Protection
WhatsApp is also introducing additional layers of account protection. When you are transferring your account to a new device WhatsApp is asking users to verify their identity on their old device. This helps to prevent unauthorized account transfers and protects against account hijacking attempts.
Scam Prevention Tips and Resources
WhatsApp offers several tips and resources to help users identify and avoid scams:
- Be wary of unsolicited messages: Avoid clicking on links or providing personal information in response to unexpected messages especially from unknown numbers.
- Verify suspicious requests: If you receive a request that seems unusual or too good to be true verify it through an alternative communication channel such as a phone call.
- Report and block suspicious contacts: If you suspect that a contact is engaging in fraudulent activity report and block them immediately to prevent further harm.
WhatsApp Security: Protecting Users from Emerging Threats
WhatsApp updates its security continuously. It aims to stop scams, handle account takeovers and safeguard user data. Stay informed. Use WhatsApp’s safety tools to communicate confidently.
What’s New & Why It Matters
When someone tries to log in on a new device, WhatsApp now sends a verification request to your old device so only you can authorize the transfer. This blocks account takeover attempts.
Also Device Verification runs automatically to detect malware-based threats. It confirms device authenticity without user effort.
Automatic Security Codes
Under the encryption tab, WhatsApp now shows automatic security or key‑transparency codes. That lets you confirm your chat with someone is fully encrypted ensuring only you and the recipient can read messages.
End‑to‑End Encryption (E2EE)
WhatsApp enforces default E2EE. That means neither Meta nor third parties can access your messages. Only the sender and recipient hold the keys.
Safety Overview for Unfamiliar Groups
WhatsApp now displays a group safety overview before you join a group via invite from someone you don’t know. It shows creation date member count and warns about scams. You can choose to exit before viewing messages.
Advanced Chat Privacy
This new optional setting prevents chat export, auto‑downloading media and using content with Meta AI tools. It gives you more control over sensitive conversations. But screenshots are still possible. Norton
Private Processing for AI Features
Accessing Meta AI tools like message summarization now uses Private Processing. It runs via secure audited servers. Neither WhatsApp nor Meta retains content after the session ends. It also shields your IP using OHTTP.
Proactive Scam Detection & Account Bans
Meta banned over 6.8 million scam accounts in 2025 that were used for fraud. In addition, it is rolling out warnings when strangers add you to groups.
Best Practices to Stay Secure
- Enable Two‑Step Verification to require a secondary PIN during login.
- Never share your 6‑digit activation code, even with someone claiming to be WhatsApp support.
- If someone asks you for money over chat, verify their identity directly before acting.
