WhatsApp privacy: You may soon be able to block chat screenshots on WhatsApp

Facebook-owned WhatsApp is reportedly working on a new feature that lets users block conversation screenshots by enabling fingerprint authentication. WAbetainfo has spotted some new improvements to WhatsApp’s fingerprint authentication mechanism, which is yet to go live for general users. The update was spotted in WhatsApp Messenger for Android beta version 2.19.106.

According to the report, when Fingerprint authentication feature is enabled, the fingerprint verification will be mandatory for unlocking the app. However, it also blocks the user from taking screenshots in the chat conversations. So, you might not be able to take screenshots in your chat conversations if fingerprint authentication is enabled.

The screenshot of the feature describes that when users enable Fingerprint security, their fingerprint is required to open WhatsApp and conversation screenshots are blocked. However, users can still reply to messages from notifications and answers calls if WhatsApp is locked.

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From what we have heard so far, the feature is expected to increase the privacy and security of WhatsApp users. However, the feature’s exact implementation remains unclear. However, WhatsApp users might not appreciate a screenshot blocking feature. More details are awaited.

Apart from the screenshot blocking feature, WhatsApp may be working on something more. The report talks about a new WhatsApp Doodle UI. The report describes that updating WhatsApp the latest Android beta version. The update delivers two separate tabs for Stickers and Emoji. Stickers tab allows users to add third-party stickers and content stickers.

Stickers are grouped by ‘Favourites’ and ‘Category’ to let users quickly find stickers. Those stickers can also be added to images, videos and GIFs.

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Earlier this month, WhatsApp added new group privacy controls to let users decide who can add them to groups on WhatsApp. Previously, users had no control over who can add them to WhatsApp groups and anybody could add you to any WhatsApp group without your consent. WhatsApp ahead group privacy controls ahead of 2019 Indian General elections.

Recently, a study showed that the rate at which fake news and misinformation is spreading through WhatsApp could be on the rise.