WhatsApp Beta Introduces New Feature To Block Messages From Unknown Accounts
WhatsApp is rolling out a new update for beta testers , introducing a feature aimed at protecting users from unwanted messages sent by unknown accounts . The new feature, as tracked by a feature tracker, automatically filters and blocks messages in certain situations, enhancing user privacy and security. Currently available to select beta testers, the feature can be enabled manually. It will soon be part of WhatsApp’s suite of advanced safety features designed to safeguard users while using the app.
With the latest WhatsApp Beta for Android (version 2.24.20.16), users can now access a setting that blocks messages from unknown accounts. Beta testers with this version can enable the feature by navigating to Settings > Privacy > Advanced > Block Unknown Account Messages. According to WABetaInfo, users will be able to stop receiving messages from unknown senders, which could protect them from spam and unwanted content.
WhatsApp has described this feature as a way to improve both user account security and device performance. Spam messages sent in bulk from unknown accounts can often slow down devices, making this new feature particularly helpful in reducing performance issues caused by spam. The platform will automatically block such messages if they exceed a certain limit, although the specific limit will remain undisclosed to prevent spammers from finding ways to bypass the feature.
At this time, the feature is limited to beta testers, meaning those using the stable version of WhatsApp will need to wait for its wider release. Even when activated, users will still receive messages from unknown accounts within a limited threshold. This balance ensures that important messages are not missed while still offering protection from mass spam.
This new message blocking feature joins two other advanced privacy features on WhatsApp: securing users’ IP addresses during calls and disabling link previews to prevent third parties from guessing users’ IP addresses. These features are optional, and users must manually enable them to take full advantage of WhatsApp’s enhanced privacy and security settings.
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With the latest WhatsApp Beta for Android (version 2.24.20.16), users can now access a setting that blocks messages from unknown accounts. Beta testers with this version can enable the feature by navigating to Settings > Privacy > Advanced > Block Unknown Account Messages. According to WABetaInfo, users will be able to stop receiving messages from unknown senders, which could protect them from spam and unwanted content.
WhatsApp has described this feature as a way to improve both user account security and device performance. Spam messages sent in bulk from unknown accounts can often slow down devices, making this new feature particularly helpful in reducing performance issues caused by spam. The platform will automatically block such messages if they exceed a certain limit, although the specific limit will remain undisclosed to prevent spammers from finding ways to bypass the feature.
At this time, the feature is limited to beta testers, meaning those using the stable version of WhatsApp will need to wait for its wider release. Even when activated, users will still receive messages from unknown accounts within a limited threshold. This balance ensures that important messages are not missed while still offering protection from mass spam.
This new message blocking feature joins two other advanced privacy features on WhatsApp: securing users’ IP addresses during calls and disabling link previews to prevent third parties from guessing users’ IP addresses. These features are optional, and users must manually enable them to take full advantage of WhatsApp’s enhanced privacy and security settings.





