WhatsApp Introduces Warning for Chats With Unknown Numbers to Prevent Scams

WhatsApp has launched a new security feature to help users avoid scams from unknown numbers. The feature displays a warning before users open a chat with a number they have not messaged before. This update is rolling out on both Android and iOS devices, according to WABetaInfo.

Key Highlights

• WhatsApp rolls out warning for chats with unknown numbers on Android and iOS.
• Warning shows registration location, contact status, and shared groups before chat begins.
• Feature aims to prevent scams by alerting users before they respond to unfamiliar numbers.
• Not all unfamiliar numbers are threats and saved contacts may bypass the warning.

New Warning for Unknown Numbers

The warning appears when a user tries to start a conversation with an unfamiliar phone number. It provides key information, including where the phone number is registered, whether it is saved as a contact, and if the two users share any groups. Users can then choose to continue or cancel the chat. The other person does not receive any notification about the user's choice.

This feature stands out because it activates before any conversation begins. Most existing WhatsApp safety tools only work after a chat has started. By intervening early, the warning aims to stop scams before they can begin. Scammers often send messages from unknown numbers, pretending to be someone familiar, such as "hey, it's me, I got a new number." These messages do not always appear suspicious, making users more vulnerable.

How the Feature Works

The warning is designed to prompt users to pause and verify details before responding. For example, if the number is registered in a different country, the warning will highlight this. This helps users identify potential scams at the critical moment when scammers hope for a quick response.

However, the feature is not foolproof. If a scammer's number is already saved in a user's contacts, the warning may not appear. Additionally, not every unfamiliar number is a threat. Sometimes, a genuine contact may have changed their number.

WhatsApp has not shared the exact criteria that trigger the warning. However, a number registered in a different country is likely a key factor. Users are advised to read the warning details carefully. If anything seems suspicious, it is safer to cancel the chat. Continuing a conversation with a scammer could lead to greater risks.

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