WhatsApp has introduced a significant enhancement to its chat privacy features, specifically through the implementation of blocked exports and download controls. This new "Advanced Chat Privacy" setting allows users to prevent others from exporting entire chat histories or automatically downloading media files, thus reinforcing user control over their personal information . The feature is applicable in both individual and group chats, ensuring that users can manage their conversations more effectively while also minimizing unauthorized data sharing.
The feature will prevent people from using messages for Meta AI as well, which you can currently use to ask questions within a chat and generate images.
By default, WhatsApp saves photos and videos in a chat to your phone’s local storage. It also lets you and your recipients export chats (with or without media) to your messages, email, or notes app. The Advanced Chat Privacy setting will prevent this in group and individual chats.
Meta €200 million ($227 million) for breaching the Digital Markets Act (DMA) by illegally requiring users to opt for a "pay or consent" model and not offering a less personalized but equivalent alternative for those who do not consent.
DMA, as it did not give users the required specific choice to opt for a service that uses less of their personal data but is otherwise equivalent to the 'personalised ads' service," the Commission said.
The Meta-owned company notes that this feature could be helpful in situations where participants may not know each other well but are discussing sensitive topics. For example, you may be discussing health challenges in a support group or organizing around a meaningful community issue.
You can turn on the new setting by tapping the chat name and selecting the “Advanced Chat Privacy” option.
The feature is rolling out gradually over the coming months and will be available in both chats and groups.
Moreover, the introduction of this privacy setting highlights a proactive approach by WhatsApp in addressing user concerns regarding data security. By notifying group members when this feature is activated, WhatsApp fosters transparency within communication channels. Although users can still take screenshots or manually download content, the limitation on mass exports serves as a deterrent against potential misuse of sensitive information . Such measures reflect a broader trend among technology companies to prioritize user privacy amidst increasing scrutiny and regulatory pressures.
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