WhatsApp is enhancing security measures for community users with the introduction of a feature that allows users to conceal their phone numbers from others.
In a community chat, the names of participants are typically hidden from each other, except for administrators who have access to everyone’s names. However, reacting to a message in the community announcement group would make your phone number publicly visible, compromising your anonymity. The new Phone Number Privacy feature solves this issue by allowing you to hide your contact information from prying eyes.
The initial report includes images that reveal a new Phone Number Privacy option in a community’s announcement group info menu. Tapping on this option will display a warning message informing you that despite hiding your details, there will still be individuals who can see your phone number. Community administrators and people who have saved you as a contact or have your number from other chats will still have access. However, if you need to contact someone whose number is hidden, you can send them a request to share their contact details with you.
It’s important to note that only community members can use this tool. If you are the creator or an administrator of the community, WhatsApp will not allow you to hide your phone number.
Availability
You can try out the Phone Number Privacy feature by installing the latest WhatsApp for Android beta from the Google Play Store or the WhatsApp for iOS beta from the Apple App Store. However, access to the iOS beta through Apple’s TestFlight program is no longer available to new users. Unfortunately, iPhone users will have to wait. On the other hand, Android users can easily join Google’s beta program for the Play Store to gain access.
The beta rollout of Phone Number Privacy may not be immediately available on your device after installation since it is being released in waves. Keep an eye out for the beta and expect the official launch of the feature soon since it’s already in the beta phase. Additionally, WABetaInfo suggests that the update may extend to other groups on WhatsApp, although the specific groups are unknown. This feature would be beneficial for smaller WhatsApp groups to provide extra anonymity.
While waiting for official news, you can explore TechRadar’s list of the best privacy tools for 2023 and learn how to enhance your online security.
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