WhatsApp Introduces New Feature to Block Unwanted Messages

WhatsApp is taking spam seriously: the instant messaging service will soon offer a filter to prevent you from receiving too many unwanted messages from strangers—an excellent initiative!

WhatsApp continues to add new security features to maintain the trust of its users. Fully encrypted, the instant messaging service already offers many options to ensure the confidentiality of communications, such as disappearing messages, the ability to block screenshots for certain messages, sending disappearing voice messages, Chat Lock mode—which allows you to hide certain conversations and lock access to them—hidden online presence, and a mute function to automatically filter unknown numbers. There's even a contextual card to provide essential information about the group creator.

This time, Meta is addressing the management of unwanted messages, which can contain dangerous scams. The specialized site WABetaInfo discovered in the beta version 2.24.20.16 of the Android application that Meta will allow users to automatically block messages from unknown contacts if they send too many messages within a limited period—this new feature was already being tested last August. You'll need to go to the settings to activate the option.

Please note that this feature does not allow you to block all messages from unknown senders in general. This means that numbers not listed in your contacts can still contact you freely, and you'll need to manually block people you do not wish to communicate with.

Spam on WhatsApp: Better Management of Messages from Strangers

This new feature, currently under development, allows you to kill two birds with one stone. Currently, WhatsApp uses automated tools to detect and filter malicious actors on the platform while preserving privacy, including algorithms that identify suspicious behavior and bulk messages. With this option enabled, WhatsApp will automatically block messages from unknown accounts, protecting users from unwanted or potentially dangerous communications. Simply go to Settings > Privacy > Advanced Settings to enable it.

With the growing number of scams and unwanted communications, this new feature is a welcome addition that empowers users to take control of their messaging experience, ensuring a safer and more enjoyable platform for everyone.