WhatsApp to Launch Anti-Spam Feature to Block Promotional Messages
WhatsApp is developing a new security feature to automatically detect and block unwanted promotional and scam messages before they reach users’ inboxes. The update, expected by December, aims to combat spam that consumes device storage and clutters chat lists.
Key Takeaways
- Automatic detection and blocking of promotional/scam messages
- Targets bulk senders and business accounts
- Expected rollout by December 2024
- Testing includes India, a major spam-affected market
How Messaging Capping Works
The new system, called ‘Messaging Capping,’ will limit how many messages unknown or business accounts can send to non-responsive users. Each message sent to someone who doesn’t reply will count toward a monthly limit. Senders exceeding this threshold may face restrictions or temporary blocks.
Current Testing Phase
According to TechCrunch reports, WhatsApp is currently testing different message thresholds but hasn’t disclosed the exact limits. The feature is undergoing trials before rolling out to multiple countries, with India being a key market facing significant spam issues.
This update represents WhatsApp’s latest effort to enhance user privacy and combat fraudulent activities on its platform, building on existing security measures .
