WhatsApp Launches New Safety Features to Combat Cryptocurrency Scams

In India, where over 650 million citizens have access to mobile phones, many remain unaware of the risks posed by online platforms. Recently, there has been a significant rise in cyber scams on WhatsApp, particularly involving fraudulent cryptocurrency trading schemes. Scammers often add unsuspecting users to WhatsApp group chats without consent, promising lucrative returns on cryptocurrency investments. Many naive users have fallen victim to these schemes, losing their hard-earned money. To tackle this growing threat, WhatsApp has introduced new safety features aimed at protecting users from such cyber fraud:

• Group Alerts for Unknown Additions: When a person who is not in a user's contact list adds them to a WhatsApp group, the app now displays key information about the group along with safety tips. This allows users to quickly understand the group's purpose and decide whether to stay or exit immediately.
• Warnings for One-on-One Chats: If a user receives a message from someone not in their contacts, WhatsApp will alert them to be cautious before continuing the conversation.
The WhatsApp team advises users to "pause, question, and verify before responding to a suspicious or unusual message, especially if it’s from a number you don’t know promising fast money." Additionally, WhatsApp is testing a new voice call reminder feature. This feature allows users to set reminders to return missed calls with preset options of 2 hours, 8 hours, 24 hours, or a custom time, enhancing user convenience and communication management. These updates are part of WhatsApp's ongoing efforts to enhance online safety and combat the increasing number of cyber scams targeting users, especially in India.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

WhatsApp Safety Features

Q: What new safety features has WhatsApp introduced to combat scams? A: WhatsApp has introduced "Group Alerts for Unknown Additions" which provides information and safety tips when added to a group by an unknown contact, and "Warnings for One-on-One Chats" to alert users about messages from unknown numbers. Q: How does the "Group Alerts for Unknown Additions" feature work? A: If someone not in your contacts adds you to a WhatsApp group, the app will now display key details about the group and offer safety advice, helping you quickly assess the situation and decide whether to leave. Q: What is the purpose of the "Warnings for One-on-One Chats" feature? A: This feature alerts you if you receive a message from someone not in your contact list, prompting you to exercise caution before engaging in the conversation. Q: What general advice does WhatsApp give to users about suspicious messages? A: WhatsApp advises users to pause, question, and verify any suspicious or unusual messages, especially those promising fast money from unknown numbers. Q: What is the new voice call reminder feature being tested? A: WhatsApp is testing a feature that allows users to set reminders for missed calls, with options for preset intervals (2, 8, 24 hours) or a custom time.

Crypto Market AI's Take

In the ever-evolving digital landscape, staying ahead of scams, particularly those targeting cryptocurrency investments, is crucial. Platforms like WhatsApp implementing enhanced safety features are a positive step in protecting users. For those involved in the cryptocurrency market, understanding and utilizing advanced tools for security and information is paramount. Our platform, Crypto Market AI, offers a suite of AI-powered solutions designed to navigate the complexities of the crypto world, from real-time market analysis and trading bots to secure digital asset management. Staying informed about new scams and security measures, alongside leveraging sophisticated AI tools, provides a more robust defense against financial fraud.

More to Read:

• AI-driven Crypto Scams Surge: Experts Warn No One is Safe
• How to Recognize and Avoid Cryptocurrency Scams
• Best Practices for Online Security

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Source: WhatsApp launches safety tool against fraud cryptocurrency trading group chats - Deccan Herald, published 06 August 2025.