WhatsApp is working on a new safety tool designed to improve user protection against online scams. The feature is called Scam Alert and is currently under development.
The tool was discovered in WhatsApp beta version 2.26.22.2 for Android. It is not yet available to users or beta testers. The feature is expected to be released in a future update.
According to early details, WhatsApp Scam Alert will warn users when a message from an unknown contact appears suspicious. A warning message will appear directly inside the chat.
The alert will display a message saying, “This may be a scam.” It will also highlight that the sender is an unknown contact. This aims to help users identify risky conversations quickly.
When the warning appears, WhatsApp will offer two options. Users can either block and report the contact or continue the conversation if they trust it. The feature will not automatically restrict communication.
A key part of the system is that it works entirely on the user’s device. WhatsApp will not send message content to external servers for analysis. This ensures the feature remains compatible with end-to-end encryption.
The platform already uses similar on-device technology for voice message transcripts. These transcripts are generated directly on the phone and are not shared with WhatsApp or any third party.
The Scam Alert feature will run silently in the background once enabled. Other users will not know if someone has turned it on. This keeps privacy fully intact.
WhatsApp is also developing a local transparency report for the feature. It will show when Scam Alert is activated and how it has worked over time. However, all data will remain stored only on the user’s device.
The feature will be optional and turned off by default. Users will need to enable it manually through settings if they want extra protection.
Once active, WhatsApp will automatically scan incoming messages from unknown contacts for possible scam patterns. The company has not yet shared full technical details.
There is currently no official release date for Scam Alert. It is expected to roll out first to beta users before a wider public release.
In other news read more about Meta Tightens Safety Rules for Teen Users Across Instagram, Facebook, and Messenger
In conclusion, WhatsApp Scam Alert aims to improve digital safety while preserving privacy. The feature reflects growing concerns over online fraud and messaging security.
