WhatsApp is reportedly testing a new security feature that will warn users when they receive messages from unknown numbers. The feature is intended to help users identify potential online scams, spam and fraud before starting a conversation.
According to reports, WhatsApp is developing the feature as part of its ongoing efforts to strengthen user safety on the platform. When a user opens a chat from an unknown or unsaved number for the first time, a dedicated warning message will appear on the screen to alert them to potential risks associated with the conversation.
The reported feature is designed to notify users when they receive a message from an unknown or unsaved phone number. The warning screen is intended to help users recognise possible fraudulent or fake messages before engaging with the sender.
The feature is reportedly being tested for both Android and iPhone users. It is expected to provide users with relevant information before they decide whether to continue the conversation.
According to the report, the warning screen will display several details related to the phone number. These include the country where the number is registered, whether the number is saved in the user's contacts and whether there has been any previous conversation with that number.
The screen will also include a security warning informing users that cybercriminals may attempt to obtain personal information, banking details, passwords or money. After reviewing the information, users can choose either to continue the chat or close it. If a user closes the chat, the other person will not be notified.
Reports indicate that cases involving WhatsApp-based online scams, fake job offers, fraudulent investment schemes and banking fraud have increased in recent years. The reported feature is intended to help users identify suspicious conversations and remain cautious before interacting with unknown contacts. It may also help reduce the effectiveness of social engineering techniques used by cybercriminals.
According to reports, Meta is also working on several other features for WhatsApp. These include a dedicated voice note widget for the home screen, allowing users to record voice messages more quickly, and testing of a "View Once" text message feature for iPhone users.
The company has not officially confirmed a launch date for any of these reported features.
