• Source:JND
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WhatsApp, a Meta-owned messaging platform, tests new features for users across platforms at regular intervals. In the latest move, the company is working on a feature to allow users to block messages from unknown WhatsApp accounts, according to WABetaInfo. The option was spotted in the works in the Android beta "2.24.17.24" version. The update is expected to be available to Google Play Beta Program users soon.

According to the report, the feature can help enhance the privacy and security of a WhatsApp account. As per the screengrab, the "Block unknown accounts messages" feature was spotted next to the "Protect IP address in calls" and "Disable link previews" within the "Advanced" options. The feature can ensure protection from potentially harmful and unwanted communication.

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"To protect your account and improve device performance, WhatsApp will block messages from unknown accounts if they exceed a certain volume," the description of the feature read. WABetaInfo noted that the feature will also help improve the app experience by reducing spam and unnecessary messages that may strain the smartphone's memory and the app.

Spam accounts generally send a high volume of messages that can overwhelm the system. If enabled, the feature will help reduce the amount of data the app processes while blocking unknown accounts. The feature can help users deploy automated tools to detect and filter malicious actors while ensuring privacy and recognising suspicious behaviour with bulk messaging.

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By enabling the option, users will gain an additional layer of control to restrain messages from unknown contacts if they exceed a particular threshold and allow protection from spam activity. The report said this will also reduce the risks of phishing and malicious activity that can compromise a device. Meanwhile, the company is also testing a 'like' reaction for status updates on WhatsApp similar to Instagram. You can read more on this here.

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