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WhatsApp wants you to stop sharing phone numbers
WhatsApp has made it easy to get anyone’s number and message or call them but the messaging app wants to change that soon.
WhatsApp is back with another new feature aimed at enhancing user privacy. The messaging app is gearing up to introduce an advanced username feature with PIN support to a future update of the app called ‘Username and PIN.’ According to details from WABetaInfo, this feature will allow users to substitute their phone numbers and choose a unique and memorable username for their accounts in the future, providing an additional layer of privacy.
A screenshot from the tipster reveals that the company is exploring the implementation of the advanced username feature aimed at improving phone number privacy. This addition will provide WhatsApp users with greater flexibility in managing their privacy experience, as they can choose to use their username instead of their phone number for new interactions.
The feature can be currently accessed by WhatsApp Android beta version 2.24.18.2 users. However, stable Android users will have to wait until the feature is rolled out in a future update.
By selecting the ‘Username’ option, new contacts can keep their phone numbers hidden, displaying only a username to others in the profile section. Furthermore, the tech giant is working to develop an optional PIN code feature for usernames. This PIN will act as an additional layer of privacy, particularly for people you haven’t interacted with before. Users will be able to set a four-digit PIN that they can share with specific people. Once the PIN is set, only those who have this PIN will be able to connect with you on WhatsApp.
While this feature gives users more control over their privacy, there is a potential drawback. It is important to note that users who have your phone number can still message you, even if the PIN feature is activated. However, you can opt to use your username in the future to start new conversations.
The upcoming feature is optional, and it is designed to give WhatsApp users more control over who can reach them through WhatsApp. This also ensures that only those people the user chooses can reach out to them initially through their username.
