WhatsApp introduces a chat feature to prevent leaks that you should activate immediately.
WhatsApp
WhatsApp conversations extend beyond casual exchanges with friends and family. They have been widely utilized during pro-democracy protests in Hong Kong, medical assistance in conflict zones, efforts for environmental justice, and political movements. However, leaks can place group chat members in significant danger.
To address these digital risks, WhatsApp is introducing a new feature that will prevent any user from exporting chat histories to other platforms. This feature, known as Advanced Chat Privacy, is applicable to both group chats and individual conversations.
Currently, users can export the contents of any chat, including group chats, even if they are not the administrator. When exporting, users have the option to include just the text or to also add shared media files.
In addition to restricting chat exports, the feature will stop the automatic downloading of photos and videos shared within group chats. "This ensures that all participants in the chat can feel secure that what is discussed remains private,” WhatsApp states in its update.
Users can enable Advanced Chat Privacy by tapping the chat name at the top of the screen and switching it to the “On” position. This feature is being rolled out to all WhatsApp users on both Android and iOS with a new update.
Curbing Meta AI
Another significant aspect of this new tool is that it prevents others from “using messages for AI features.” Earlier, Meta had integrated its namesake Meta AI into the messaging platform, allowing users to interact with a chatbot and request image generation.
While this can be beneficial, especially for businesses, it may lead to an influx of spammy content and unnecessary distraction in group chats. The recent "Ask Grok" trend on X exemplifies how an AI chatbot can incite ideological or political controversies on social media.
Furthermore, Meta AI has already raised concerns among regulators. Although Meta states that the AI is optional, it cannot be removed. While it doesn't have access to your personal chats, all your interactions with Meta AI contribute to the training of the company's AI.
The UK’s Information Commissioner’s Office recently informed the BBC that it is monitoring Meta’s use of AI within WhatsApp. Meanwhile, Meta asserts that it is responsive to user feedback and is merely providing an option that it considers beneficial.
Nadeem is a tech and science journalist who began exploring exciting smartphone technology out of curiosity and subsequently expanded into writing about it.
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WhatsApp introduces a chat feature to prevent leaks that you should activate immediately.
Worried about leaks from group chat members? WhatsApp has introduced a new feature called advanced chat privacy, which will stop participants from exporting the chat content.