The feature is reportedly being tested on both Android and iOS. It was first spotted by WABetaInfo, which shared details of a warning screen that appears when users open a chat from an unsaved number.
Instead of jumping straight into the conversation, WhatsApp will display a security alert with details to help users assess if it’s trustworthy.
The warning includes the country where the number is registered, whether the sender is in the user’s contacts and if they share any common WhatsApp groups. The goal is to give context before engaging with an unfamiliar contact.
The alert also flags common scam tactics, warning that fraudsters may try to obtain personal information, passwords or money. Users can then choose to continue the chat or cancel.
The sender is not notified of that decision. The feature is currently available in limited regions and will expand to more markets in the coming months.
While important, the feature isn’t foolproof. Warnings may not appear if the number is already saved, or if a known contact has changed their number or moved countries.
The feature comes as messaging platforms face a surge in scams, from investment fraud and fake job offers to impersonation schemes and phishing attacks. WhatsApp stresses that users should remain vigilant and avoid sharing sensitive data with untrusted parties.
