WhatsApp is adding new security tools to help users identify and avoid scams on its platform, as the messaging service continues to combat widespread misuse. Announced on Tuesday, the updates include features aimed at improving safety in both group and individual chats, alongside a crackdown on accounts linked to organized scam networks.
The Meta-owned platform has launched a “safety overview” for group chats, triggered when a user is added to a group by someone not in their contact list. This summary presents details such as whether the group’s creator or members are among the user’s existing contacts, along with tips for evaluating the group’s legitimacy. Notifications will be muted until the user confirms they wish to remain in the group.
On the one-to-one chat front, WhatsApp is testing new warning systems for messages from unknown users. The goal is to help people pause and assess interactions that might originate from scams. The app may soon provide extra context about unknown contacts before a conversation starts, especially in cases where scammers initiate contact outside the app and later move the conversation to WhatsApp.
These updates accompany WhatsApp’s announcement that it has removed over 6.8 million accounts connected to global scam operations. One network, based in Cambodia, was flagged for using ChatGPT to generate bait messages that lured targets into cryptocurrency schemes. Victims were redirected to Telegram and encouraged to participate in tasks like liking TikTok videos before being asked to deposit funds.
The company emphasized that users should remain skeptical of urgent or unfamiliar requests, especially those involving money or personal information, and use independent channels to verify contacts who claim to be friends or relatives.
