WhatsApp is working on another privacy focused feature that could help users identify when their accounts are connected through unofficial web clients. The feature is reportedly being tested for Android users and would alert them to switch to the official WhatsApp Web service.
According to a feature tracker, the warning appears when an account is connected through a third party or unofficial WhatsApp Web client. The alert is expected to appear in the Linked Devices section and will ask users to move to the official client to keep their account safe.
A screenshot of the feature reportedly shows the warning at the bottom of the Linked Devices screen. Users will be able to dismiss the alert if they choose.
Unofficial WhatsApp Web clients can potentially expose user data and files to third party software. Using unauthorised clients can therefore put user privacy at risk. The official WhatsApp Web service, which uses end to end encryption, can be accessed through Web.whatsapp.com.
The reported feature comes shortly after WhatsApp previewed its Scam Alert tool, which is designed to warn users about potentially fraudulent messages. The feature uses an on device machine learning model and displays a warning inside chats, allowing users to block and report suspicious conversations. If a warning appears incorrectly, users can ignore it and continue the conversation. The feature is currently being tested in beta and is optional.
WhatsApp has also recently introduced audio and video calling on its Web version. The feature supports both one to one and group calls, with conversations protected by end to end encryption. Web users can also use features such as screen sharing and reactions during calls.
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