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Thursday, February 26, 2026

WhatsApp has a hidden button that can save you from scams

Shielding your WhatsApp account is essential to prevent cybercriminals from accessing your personal or financial information.The app includes a little-known security feature that, if activated, can block the entry of many phone scams and protect you from phishing attempts.

WhatsApp has strengthened its privacy options to stop attacks that come through calls from unknown origin.The settings menu includes a key feature: IP address protection for calls.

When activated, communications are redirected through Meta servers, making it difficult for attackers to track your location or internet provider.This measure is especially relevant against fraud strategies that use artificial intelligence to identify vulnerable accounts and launch personalized attacks.

WhatsApp has a hidden button that can save you from scams
Shielding your WhatsApp account is essential to prevent cybercriminals from accessing your personal or financial information.REUTERS/Dado Ruvic

The function of silencing calls from unknown numbers has become one of the most effective resources against telephone fraud.When activated, calls from unsaved numbers do not interrupt or alert the user, although they are recorded in the history so you can review them later.

The process is simple: just go to Settings, select Privacy and enable the corresponding option in the Calls section.This action reduces the chances of scammers using impersonation techniques, such as impersonating banks or technical services.

Neglecting your privacy settings can make it easier for criminals to obtain sensitive information, such as your IP address, and open the door to identity theft or account hijacking methods.

Many scams begin with a seemingly innocent call, but the lack of security filters allows attackers to collect key data to deceive the victim.Therefore, keeping advanced protections activated is essential to block the most common frauds.

WhatsApp has a hidden button that can save you from scams
The function of silencing calls from unknown numbers has become one of the most effective resources against fraud.REUTERS/Dado Ruvic

Setting up these features is quick and easy.Access the Settings menu, enter Privacy and look for the advanced options section.Activate IP address protection on calls and silence calls from unknown numbers.

Thus, you reinforce the security barriers of your account and prevent cybercriminals from taking advantage of vulnerabilities to access your information or deceive you with social engineering techniques.

Getting ahead of the risks and activating the hidden WhatsApp button is the best way to protect your privacy and protect your data from the threats of the digital environment.

WhatsApp has a hidden button that can save you from scams
WhatsApp has strengthened its privacy options to stop attacks that come through calls from unknown origin.REUTERS/Dado Ruvic

To block a contact on WhatsApp, go to Settings by tapping the three vertical dots icon.Access the Privacy section and select Blocked Contacts.From there, tap the icon to add a new blocked contact and choose the person you want to restrict.

There are also alternatives to blocking directly from the chats screen. Open the conversation with the contact, select More options, then More and finally Block.If you prefer not to report the user, uncheck the corresponding box.In the case of companies, enter the contact information, choose Block, the reason and confirm the action.

Another option is to long-press the conversation in the chat list, tap More options, then tap Block.

WhatsApp has a hidden button that can save you from scams
WhatsApp allows you to block users from third-party applications.REUTERS/Dado Ruvic

Due to regulatory changes in Europe, WhatsApp now allows you to communicate with users of other compatible applications, as long as the user decides to activate this function.This option to chat with third-party apps is limited to certain regions and may not be available to everyone.

In this context, keep in mind that those who you have previously blocked on WhatsApp could contact you from those external applications.If you receive unwanted messages through a third-party chat, simply enter the conversation, select the sender’s name and choose the option to block it.

Aiman Sohail
Aiman Sohail
Dr. Aiman Sohail is a seasoned journalist and geopolitical analyst with over a decade of experience covering global affairs, politics, and current events. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in International Relations from Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad, followed by a Master’s in Political Science from Lahore University of Management Sciences (LUMS). Driven by a passion for understanding global dynamics, she completed her PhD in International Security Studies at The University of London, focusing on South Asian geopolitics and conflict resolution. Sara began her career as a correspondent for The Express Tribune, covering domestic politics and economic developments. She later joined Geo News as a senior reporter, specializing in geopolitical affairs, foreign policy, and conflict analysis. Over the years, her articles have been featured in major national and international publications, including Dawn, The Diplomat, and Al Jazeera English, earning her recognition for insightful analysis and in-depth reporting. In addition to journalism, Sara frequently contributes to academic forums, think tanks, and panel discussions on international relations. Her expertise lies in South Asian security, diplomatic policy, and global political trends, making her one of Pakistan’s leading voices in contemporary geopolitics.

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