After updating to WhatsApp beta for Android 2.24.20.16, users will have access to a new setting that blocks messages from certain unknown accounts (via WABetaInfo). Beta testers who are using the latest version for Android smartphones need to tap on the three-dot menu > Settings > Privacy > Advanced > Block unknown account messages. Gadgets 360 has confirmed that the new toggle was available on the latest beta version.
WhatsApp’s description of the new feature says that it has been designed to improve the security of users’ accounts and device performance. Once enabled, the messaging platform will “block messages sent from unknown accounts if they exceed a certain amount.” The performance of users’ devices may deteriorate due to spam messages. In such a situation, the new features seem to be designed to protect users from automatic spam messages.
The feature is currently limited to beta testers, which means users on the stable update channel will have to wait for a larger rollout. When this is enabled, users will still see a limited number of messages from unknown accounts, which WhatsApp will not disclose to prevent spammers from bypassing the company’s feature.
This feature to block messages from unknown accounts will join two other features that provide advanced privacy on WhatsApp, including securing the IP address of users in calls and preventing third parties from guessing the IP address of users. Disabling link preview. All three features are optional and will have to be turned on manually by users on their smartphones.
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