WhatsApp is preparing for a new feature that would prevent people from receiving unwanted video calls on the application, in a bid to reduce the cases of sextortion scams. Most people receive calls that make them feel threatened or called for harassment. This update will make it possible for the user to block all video calls from individuals whose number is not saved in the contact list thus enhancing the privacy and security of users.

Highlights

• WhatsApp will allow blocking video calls from unknown numbers
• The feature helps prevent sextortion scams and unwanted calls.
• Users can enable or disable the setting as needed.
• Part of WhatsApp’s effort to enhance security and privacy.
• The feature will roll out soon for Android and iOS users.

This update offers users more privacy options that allow them to configure which contacts can, or cannot, call them on WhatsApp. Due to this it limits unknown numbers from calling through the video call feature hence reducing the cases of fraud and harassment. It can be switched on or off and the ability to do so does not decrease its ergonomics. It is a step that is important in ensuring that internet communications are made more secure.

Sextortion scams are becoming more popular with the criminals opting to use video calls to entrap their targets. We have a situation where attackers use any opportunity they pull tricks on users by recording them and asking for money for their safety. With this form of security feature, they do not allow the users to be a target of such malpractice. This comes into play in consonance with the firm’s continuous manner of fortifying its privacy feature in the app.

WhatsApp has been constantly enhancing the privacy options in efforts to fight cybercrimes. This new feature makes the users to be more secure from the evil doers in the social network. This measure enhances security and minimizes hazards in general because of the ability to block simply incognito video calls. Over the past years, the scams became a significant problem for the users, while WhatsApp still acts proactively in the matter.