WhatsApp increases privacy by limiting the ability to save copies of your chats with others.

WhatsApp is set to introduce a new “Advanced Chat Privacy” feature aimed at preventing other users from exporting your chats. This feature allows you to apply privacy settings on a chat-by-chat basis, meaning you can enable it for specific one-on-one conversations or group chats. While this new setting effectively blocks the export function, it’s important to note that users can still capture messages from the app by taking screenshots or forwarding them. Future updates are anticipated to enhance these privacy measures further.

With over two billion active monthly users, WhatsApp has become a vital tool for digital communication, continuously evolving by adding new features to attract more users. However, the platform’s commitment to privacy and security is what retains its loyal user base. Incorporating measures like end-to-end encryption, disappearing messages, two-step verification, and read receipt controls, WhatsApp has established itself as a trustworthy messaging app. The “Advanced Chat Privacy” feature, first mentioned in a beta version earlier this month, is now being rolled out to enhance user privacy by making it harder for others to export their conversations with you.

This feature prevents not only chat exports but also blocks automatic media downloads and the use of your messages in AI features. Although the feature is a positive addition, it does not provide complete protection. As of now, it has not been available for me to test, but reports suggest that users can enable it for specific contacts, while leaving it off for those they trust. Once activated, if someone attempts to export the chat, they will receive a message noting that the export function is disabled.

This feature is especially useful for discussions in groups where sensitive topics are being addressed. Ultimately, while the “Advanced Chat Privacy” feature adds another layer of security, it does not eliminate all risks, allowing for alternatives like screenshots and message forwarding. WhatsApp has indicated that this initial version is only the beginning, with plans for future updates that may include even tighter restrictions on message forwarding and screenshots.