On Tuesday, WhatsApp announced the rollout of a feature aimed at enhancing the security of its group messaging system. The messaging platform, owned by Meta, will now provide users with contextual information when they are added to a group by someone not in their contacts. This feature is intended to equip WhatsApp users with relevant details about the group they join and includes a quick exit option should they choose to leave the group.
Introduction of Group Safety Context Cards
In details disclosed on Tuesday, WhatsApp introduced a new card that will appear for group chats after a user is added by a non-contact. This card will be visible in the chat interface and will offer context about the group to help users determine their interest in remaining a member.
The context cards for group chats will prominently showcase the name of the WhatsApp user who added the new member. A sample image illustrating the feature indicates that the card presents the name as defined by the user, which is typically represented with a tilde symbol (~) when an unfamiliar user sends a message in a group chat.
The new member will also receive a notification indicating they were added by a non-contact. The context card will further identify the creator of the group, with the name reflecting the settings configured by the user who initiated the group.
For those who find themselves added to a group against their wish, the card includes a Safety tools option for reporting inappropriate content. Additionally, an Exit group button will allow users to easily withdraw from the conversation if they desire.
Previous Safety Features Implemented by WhatsApp
WhatsApp previously implemented a useful feature in 2019 that is accessible via Settings > Account > Privacy > Groups. This setting enables users to block unknown contacts from adding them to any groups. When activated, users will receive an invitation to join groups when someone outside their contacts attempts to add them.
Upon receiving an invitation, users have three days to accept it before it becomes void. The invitation arrives as a direct message, and users are not added until they click the Join Group button. This arrangement provides a strategic option for users who wish to avoid being automatically included in groups by unknown contacts while allowing them the chance to review group details and member information before joining.
