WhatsApp has begun rolling out a new feature that prevents screenshots of profile photos on iOS devices. This update has already been added to Android, but it finally comes to iPhone with the idea of offering more privacy and protection tools in the application.
The messaging platform had already modified the privacy parameters related to the profile photo. A while ago it removed the option for other users to download our photo. However, through screenshots it was possible to obtain and distribute it without our consent.
This new WhatsApp feature is now available in beta version 12.24.10.74 through TestFlight, introducing a technical barrier that blocks the ability to capture the screen when a contact’s profile photo is displayed.
When attempting to take a capture, the user will receive a notification that will indicate that the action has been blocked “to protect the privacy of everyone on WhatsApp.”
Before its arrival on iOS, this function had already been implemented on Android devices. According to reports from Android Police, The ability to block screenshots on profile photos was introduced in March of this year.
Therefore, it served as an initial test that has allowed WhatsApp to adjust and optimize the functionality before its deployment in the iOS ecosystem, since in some cases the capture was carried out, but the content was a completely black image where it could not be seen. profile picture. Something that has changed due to a definitive blocking of this action, as is already happening in three sections of the application, such as video calls.
Currently, the new functionality is only available to a select group of iOS users. However, it is anticipated that in the coming weeks it will be extended to a greater number of users. This testing phase is essential to ensure that the implementation is optimal and bug-free before a broader release.
In addition to the new screenshot blocking feature, WhatsApp has introduced other security measures in recent years. OROne of them is the ability to silence calls from strangers, an option that allows users to avoid unwanted interruptions and possible fraud.
The app is also preparing an update that will require users to enter their full date of birth when using the messaging service. This change is intended to verify the age of users and ensure that they meet the minimum age required to use the platform. The information requested will include day, month and year of birth.
This measure responds to recent legislation adopted in several states in the United States, which requires digital services to verify the age of their users to protect minors. The new policy will initially roll out in select countries and is part of a future update to the app.
The date of birth entered by users can only be entered once and it will not be possible to modify it later. Besides, This information will be completely private and will not be visible to other users on the platform, as indicated in the age verification window.
This is not the first time that Meta, WhatsApp’s parent company, has implemented a similar feature. In April, it introduced a similar requirement in its Quest virtual reality ecosystem, where the date of birth is also requested to adapt the type of account and settings according to the user’s age, avoiding unnecessary blocking of the service due to age restrictions.
