WhatsApp is introducing a new feature called “Advanced Chat Privacy” that can prevent participants from sharing the content of a conversation. This feature is available for both traditional chats and groups.
When selected, the toolkit will prevent anyone in the chat from sharing anything outside the program. This means it will block all chat exports, but that’s just the beginning. The software will also prevent the smartphone from automatically downloading media and stop integration with artificial assistants. Essentially, everything that happens on WhatsApp stays on WhatsApp. However, it is unclear whether this prevents screenshots from being taken.
The platform notes that it is “best used when communicating with groups where you may not know everyone intimately, but are nevertheless sensitive by nature.” Examples given include a support group for health issues and a chat about community organizing.
WhatsApp says that this is only the first version of the tool and that “more protections” will be added in the future. It is currently rolling out globally, although it may take a month or two to reach everyone.
The platform is already known for being privacy-focused as it uses end-to-end encryption. It also uses related software tools such as disappearing messages and chats that require device authentication.
