WhatsApp along with Google is making sure that you don’t have to worry about malicious links! WhatsApp is releasing a new beta version 2.24.22.19 for Android, through the Google Play Beta Program. One of its latest additions to the app, which is still in beta for a lucky few, enables users to check the actual URLs that are being sent in chats with Google Search. The new feature is expected to enhance users’ protection against phishing and malware that are linked to or originate from suspicious or often forwarded links.
In the latest update, users can now press and hold a shared link, and one of the options is the ‘get link info on Google’ feature reported by WABetaInfo. This eliminates the need to open such links directly, which may be risky for one’s device or account. This feature is also effective for unsafe links, which can contain a lot of unreliable or even malicious information because of the frequent forwarding.
When this option is selected, users can immediately search in Google for more information about the link, which enables them to make better decisions before clicking any link. In the previous update 2.24.20.28, it was mentioned that the feature is used to show any forwarded link, and now it is even more universal.
Developed with Users’ Privacy Consideration
WhatsApp also wants to stress that this search function is not infringing on the user’s privacy in any way. While WhatsApp broadcasts the specific link to Google for the search, it does not access or even view the URL. The search is completely optional; this means that users have full control over the content they wish to browse. WhatsApp wants to offer transparency so that the user can decide when he needs to check the link’s authenticity.
This update is one among many changes that WhatsApp is implementing in its bid to enhance the safety of users on the app. The links shared within chats during chats, especially those most often shared, can be dangerous because of their content. With this tool, users can search for link information with no direct vulnerability to dangerous sites while they have the chance to filter links before engaging with them. This proactive security measure could be a very useful line of defence against phishing scams and malware.
Rolling Out to More Users
At the moment, the new feature is available only to a few lucky users, but in the next few days, it will be available to many others. Those who would want to try this feature should make sure that they have updated their WhatsApp to the latest beta version 2.24.22.19 from the Google Play Store. WhatsApp is still adding more safety features after new iOS updates added reactions with recent emojis.
