WhatsApp is taking significant strides to bolster account security for its community users by introducing a new feature that allows individuals to conceal their phone numbers from others. This move comes as part of the company’s ongoing efforts to prioritize user privacy and safeguard their personal information.
In a typical community chat, participant names are hidden from each other, with the exception of administrators who have access to everyone’s names. However, a potential vulnerability was identified by WABetaInfo, wherein responding to a message in a community announcement group would inadvertently expose the user’s phone number, compromising their anonymity. With the introduction of the “Phone Number Privacy” feature, this concern is effectively addressed, empowering users to protect their contact information from prying eyes.
How WhatsApp’s Phone Number Privacy Feature Works
Upon accessing a community’s announcement group info menu, users will find a new “Phone Number Privacy” option. When selected, a warning message will appear, informing users that while their details will be hidden, some exceptions will still apply. Community admins, as well as individuals who have saved the user’s number as a contact or obtained it from other chats, will still be able to view the phone number. Additionally, if necessary, users can request contact details from another person whose number is hidden, facilitating communication while respecting privacy preferences.
Limitations and Availability
It’s essential to note that this feature is exclusive to community members. Creators of a community or administrators will not have the option to hide their phone numbers. Users interested in trying out the Phone Number Privacy feature can access it through the most recent WhatsApp for Android beta from the Google Play Store or the WhatsApp for iOS beta from the Apple App Store. However, due to Apple’s TestFlight program no longer accepting new entrants, new iPhone users might be unable to access the feature. In contrast, Android owners can participate in the Play Store’s still-active beta program.
The beta rollout for Phone Number Privacy will occur in waves, so users should expect a delay in availability on their devices after installation. While the official launch date remains undisclosed, the presence of the feature in the beta phase suggests that its release is imminent.
Future Plans for Phone Number Privacy
WhatsApp’s efforts to prioritize user privacy may not end with community groups. According to WABetaInfo, the company plans to extend this feature to other groups on the platform. Specific details on which groups will receive this enhancement remain undisclosed, but users anticipate the potential for more widespread anonymity across smaller WhatsApp groups as well.
WhatsApp’s Phone Number Privacy feature represents a step forward in strengthening user security and safeguarding personal information. By allowing users to control who can access their contact details, the company is reinforcing its commitment to protecting user privacy. With the beta phase already underway, the feature’s official launch is expected soon. Meanwhile, users can explore other privacy tools for 2023 to further enhance their online security.
