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More and more social media platforms are turning to private and encrypted messaging as users call for more privacy and data security. WhatsApp has gained popularity, especially in Western markets, as contradictory to the other digital platforms.
Users who post to their social media feeds publicly have increasingly experienced a breach of data security, and privacy raising concerns for platforms to reinforce their focus on a new range of protection tools. WhatsApp has recently introduced two new privacy-focused features making the app a go-to communications platform for a rising number of people across the globe.
WhatsApp’s New Privacy Checkup
Meta chief, Mark Zuckerberg announced last October that WhatsApp is the fastest-growing platform in the North American region. The parent company is determined to solidify WhatsApp’s privacy tools with the intention to enhance its reputation around data security and the protection of consumer privacy.
In order to secure your private communication it is important to do a privacy checkup because the platform knows people need a safe place to communicate. Taking this privacy message around the world in every new way possible to help and communicate why this is so important, the platform is all set to unleash new opportunities and drive more user engagement with enhanced privacy.
According to WhatsApp, “Starting this week, we’re encouraging people to check in with one another securely via a private message so friends and loved ones know they have a safe space to open up.”
Protect your chats with WhatsApp's multiple privacy features – End-to-end encryption, Chat-Lock, Privacy Check-Ups, and many more 🔒 pic.twitter.com/MYhzuCDgRK
— WhatsApp (@WhatsApp) June 23, 2023
Silence unknown callers
The silencing unknown calls feature is designed to provide more privacy and control to the end user of all incoming calls. The feature is to automatically help you filter out spam, scams and calls from unknown people for increased protection and data security.
These spam calls will not ring on your phone but will be visible in your call log to make sure you don’t miss out on something important just in case it was wrongfully put into spam.
According to WhatsApp, “To spread the word, we’re introducing Privacy Checkup to help make sure everyone knows about the options for protection on WhatsApp.
This step-by-step feature guides you through important privacy settings to help you choose the right level of protection, all in one place. Selecting ‘Start checkup’ in your Privacy settings will navigate you through multiple privacy layers that strengthen the security of your messages, calls, and personal information.”
The world is loud 📣 But your phone doesn’t have to be. Our 🆕 privacy feature, Silence Unknown Callers, keeps the weird, random numbers from interrupting your day 🔕 📲 pic.twitter.com/8vir2qRFTH
— WhatsApp (@WhatsApp) June 20, 2023
Meta has undertaken similar initiatives on Facebook and Instagram, aiming to raise user awareness about the range of tools available to tackle negative experiences within each platform.
This approach also serves as a response when Meta faces criticism for not doing enough to address spam. By informing users about their options, Meta can assert that it has fulfilled its duty, and the responsibility lies with users who choose not to utilize these tools. This counterargument effectively addresses public criticism by acknowledging the limitations of Meta’s efforts, as user cooperation is essential for effective implementation.
The introduction of new features will enhance WhatsApp users’ ability to manage their personal experience, further strengthening its position as a trusted messaging app
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