WhatsApp, the widely-used messaging platform, has recently introduced a new feature called "Silence Unknown Callers" to enhance user privacy and control over incoming calls. 

The feature aims to provide an additional layer of protection by automatically screening out spam, scams and calls from unknown individuals. When activated, these calls will not ring on the user's phone but will be visible in the Call list in case they turn out to be important.

(Photo: WhatsApp)

How to Activate the 'Silence Unknown Callers' Feature

In their efforts to prioritize user privacy, WhatsApp has been introducing various features such as Chat Lock, Disappearing Messages, screenshot blocking, and the ability to maintain online presence privacy. 

The newly added Silence Unknown Callers feature serves as another step towards bolstering privacy and security for WhatsApp users.

To raise awareness about the available privacy options on WhatsApp, the company has also launched Privacy Checkup. This step-by-step feature serves as a guide, helping users navigate through important privacy settings and choose the appropriate level of protection. 

By selecting "Start checkup" in the Privacy settings, users can access multiple privacy layers that enhance the security of their messages, calls, and personal information.

WhatsApp acknowledges the significance of secure communication and is committed to spreading this message globally. To encourage safe and private communication, WhatsApp is initiating a campaign where users can reach out to friends and loved ones via private messages, reassuring them that WhatsApp provides a secure space for open conversations.

"We're taking this message around the world in new ways to help communicate why this is so important. Starting this week, we're encouraging people to check in with one another securely via a private message so friends and loved ones know they have a safe space to open up," WhatsApp wrote in a blog post. 

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One-way Broadcast Tool

In related news, WhatsApp had previously introduced "Channels," a feature that allows users to receive important updates from select organizations within the app.

Channels offer a simple, reliable, and private way for users to stay informed. Accessible through the "Updates" tab, alongside the existing Status feature, Channels operate as one-way broadcast tools, enabling administrators to send various types of content, including text, photos, videos, stickers, and polls.

To facilitate the discovery of relevant channels, WhatsApp is developing a searchable directory with diverse categories such as hobbies, sports teams, and updates from local officials.

Users can join channels through invite links shared in chats, emails, or online posts while maintaining the privacy of their phone numbers.

To align with their messaging approach, WhatsApp ensures that channel history is not stored on their servers for more than 30 days.

Furthermore, the platform plans to introduce features that allow updates to disappear even faster from followers' devices, and admins will have the ability to block screenshots and forwards from their channels.

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