WhatsApp, a leading messaging service owned by Meta, has introduced a new functionality enabling users to block spam messages directly from their lock screens. This enhancement is part of the platform’s ongoing efforts to address the increasing threat of spam and improve user control over messaging interactions. Spam messages have long been a nuisance for WhatsApp users, inundating them with unwanted communications including promotional messages and various scams. By facilitating actions directly from lock screens, WhatsApp seeks to bolster user privacy and security while promoting a more efficient messaging experience.
With this new tool, WhatsApp users can now effectively identify and eliminate spam messages without unlocking their devices or navigating through the application. When a spam notification appears on the lock screen, users are able to long-press the notification, which opens up several options, including the immediate option to block the sender. Users are also presented with a prompt to report the contact.
Additionally, WhatsApp has previously implemented a warning beneath the contact details for any unknown number sending messages. This feature includes options to add the contact, or either block or report it. Users can also proactively block contacts by navigating to the More Options section in the app. From there, users should select Settings > Privacy > Blocked contacts > Add, where they can search for or select the contact they wish to block.
WhatsApp requires users to register with their phone numbers, allowing anyone with these details to send messages on the platform, which raises ongoing privacy concerns. The company is reportedly exploring options for connecting users without needing to exchange phone numbers.
In another forthcoming update, WhatsApp will introduce support for cross-platform messaging. This new feature will allow users from various messaging services to send messages to WhatsApp users. A dedicated “Third Party Chats” section will be available in the app, clearly separating messages from external platforms while maintaining the encryption provided by WhatsApp’s end-to-end encryption (E2EE).
