Tech Desk 
Sep 26, 2024
WhatsApp has rolled out a new feature to enhance user safety in its latest update. This update provides users with more information about a group before joining, encouraging them to make informed decisions. The feature aims to protect users from unwanted group chats and potential scams.
What's new on WhatsApp groups?
When added to a group by someone you don't know, WhatsApp will display additional details, including:
- Who added you to the group
- When the group was created
- Who created the group
This information helps users decide if they want to join the group or not.
Read more: Gmail's new update — Blue verified sender checkmarks
Why is this feature important on WhatsApp?
Scammers often add users to unknown groups to push the scams. In 2019, WhatsApp gave users more control over who can add them to groups. Now, users can choose between three options:
- Everyone
- My Contacts
- My Contacts Except
WhatsApp also provides information on account holders who are sending texts directly to a user. This is very important because it allows the user to identify some scam or unwanted messages.
Rollout and access:
This feature is already available to some users and will be rolled out to everybody on the platform within the coming weeks.
Such plans reflect an intention to focus on user safety. The updates of WhatsApp, which are ongoing, reflect such intentions. The feature, hence, demonstrates a focus on protecting users from unwanted interactions and better plans for preventing scams.
How to control group settings:
Here's a step-by-step guide to controlling group settings on WhatsApp:
- Open the WhatsApp app on your device.
- Tap the three dots (⋯) on the top right corner of the screen.
- Select ‘Settings’ and then tap ‘Account’.
- Tap ‘Privacy’ from the Account settings.
- Select ‘Groups’ from the Privacy settings.
- Choose one of the following options:
- Everyone: Anyone can add you to groups.
- My Contacts: Only your contacts can add you to groups.
- My Contacts Except Choose specific contacts who cannot add you to groups.
- Tap ‘Save’ or ‘OK’ to confirm your selection.
