English Version

WhatsApp Introduces New Warning Feature to Help Combat Scams

Strengthening User Protection

WhatsApp is developing a new security feature aimed at reducing fraud attempts that often begin with seemingly harmless messages from unknown contacts.

Scammers frequently send messages such as "This is my new number" or "Do you remember me?" to trick users into engaging in conversations before verifying the sender's identity.

How the New Feature Works

To address this tactic, WhatsApp has started displaying warning alerts in certain cases when users receive messages from unknown international numbers.

The alert gives users an additional opportunity to verify the sender's identity before responding or sharing any personal information.

The feature is designed to notify users when a message originates from a phone number registered in a different country, helping identify potential impersonation and social engineering scams.

Not a Complete Solution

While the new warning system adds an extra layer of protection, it does not eliminate all forms of fraud.

For example, alerts may not appear if the number is already saved in the user's contacts. Additionally, some unknown international numbers may legitimately belong to friends, relatives, or colleagues who have changed their phone numbers or relocated abroad.

Stay Vigilant

WhatsApp continues to encourage users to verify the identity of unknown contacts and avoid sharing personal, financial, or sensitive information without confirmation, even when messages appear familiar or trustworthy.

The move reflects a broader effort across social media and messaging platforms to strengthen digital security as online scams and phishing attempts become increasingly sophisticated.