WhatsApp Rolls Out New Privacy Tool to Limit Chat Sharing
WhatsApp has introduced a new feature designed to give users more control over the privacy of their conversations by restricting the ability to share chat content externally.
The tool, named Advanced Chat Privacy, is now available in the latest update of the app. It can be activated in both individual and group chats by opening the chat settings, selecting the chat name, and enabling the new privacy option.
Once turned on, the setting restricts others from exporting chat histories, automatically downloading shared media to their device, or utilizing the conversation data for AI-powered features, according to WhatsApp.
The company says this new feature aims to give users “greater confidence that what’s said in a chat stays in the chat.” It’s particularly useful for sensitive group discussions—such as those in community or health support settings—where not all participants may know each other personally.
This is the first version of Advanced Chat Privacy, and WhatsApp says further enhancements are in development. However, some limitations still exist. For example, users can still manually save media or take screenshots of conversations. A WhatsApp spokesperson confirmed to The Verge that the feature doesn’t currently prevent these actions.
It’s also unclear whether message forwarding is blocked under the new setting. Meta has been contacted for clarification and updates are expected.
While this feature offers additional layers of protection, it doesn’t eliminate all risks. As always, the safest approach is to avoid sharing sensitive details with individuals you don’t fully trust—someone could still use another device to capture what’s on screen.
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