WhatsApp announces new feature to help users keep safe from widespread online group scam
WhatsApp has introduced a new security update aimed at combating online scams in group chats. This update includes enhanced tools for group admins, giving them more control over who can join the group, which helps to prevent unauthorized access by scammers.
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WhatsApp announces new feature to help users keep safe from widespread online group scamAdmins can now decide who can join their group even when the invite link is shared publicly. Additionally, WhatsApp is addressing a common scam where fraudsters pretend to be group members, tricking individuals into sharing their verification codes.
Once scammers obtain these codes, they can take over the victim's account, locking them out and potentially scamming other contacts. To mitigate this, WhatsApp recommends setting up two-step verification and being cautious about sharing personal information and verification codes.
Features will help combat rising group scams
The new security features WhatsApp has rolled out are designed to address and combat the rising number of scams in group chats. These features include:
Admin Control Over Group Entry: Group admins now have more control over who can join their groups. They can decide who can join even if an invite link is shared publicly, reducing the risk of unauthorized access by scammers.
Two-Step Verification: Users are encouraged to enable two-step verification, which adds an extra layer of security by requiring a second verification step beyond the password. This helps protect accounts from being taken over by scammers who may gain access to verification codes.
Enhanced Reporting and Blocking: Users can easily report and block suspicious accounts within WhatsApp. This feature is critical in preventing further interaction with potential scammers and alerting WhatsApp to suspicious activity.
When the feature will be available
The new WhatsApp security features aimed at combating online scams in group chats will be available to users starting this week. These features include enhanced control for group admins over who can join their groups and the encouragement to enable two-step verification for added security. By providing more tools and encouraging stronger security practices, WhatsApp aims to make group chats safer and more secure for all users.