WhatsApp is a bit more secure; will now warn you of suspicious links
WhatsApp has become over the years much more than just an alternative to SMS, and it is a complete communication platform that allows us to exchange messages and, in addition, to send all kinds of files and links through her. All these functions are very useful, but at the same time very dangerous because there are users who try to take advantage of them, for example, by sending malicious files or links to fraudulent web pages that could endanger our security. Those responsible for the platform are working to end all of these dangers, and one example is a new feature, which will soon reach users, and which will help us protect ourselves from suspicious, dangerous or fraudulent links.
A few hours ago, colleagues from ADSLZone told us about the launch of one of the new beta versions of WhatsApp for Android, versions in which they are usually included, early in order to debug and test its operation, different news and features before its launch to all users.
The new beta version of WhatsApp, 2.18.204+ , came with a novelty that has been in development for a long time (and is not yet completely ready), namely that now the email client will notify us when it sends us suspicious or dangerous links , reducing the likelihood of accessing it.
How new WhatsApp suspicious link notifications work
As we can see, when we receive a link via WhatsApp, the app itself will scan it before opening it to determine if the link is safe and reliable or not. If safe at first we shouldn't see anything, but if it is suspicious we will be able to see a red sign warning us of possible danger.
If you click on the danger notice, a description of the potential threat will appear to see why this link was considered unsafe. In this example, it is because the url contains strange characters se making passer for a seemingly reliable URL.
WhatsApp managers ensure that this verification is done locally on each user's devices, so that no information is sent to any server, and chats are always end-to-end encrypted, they are not scanned. until they are received.
This feature is not yet available, not even in the beta, but it has finally been revealed, so it could start working at any time. In addition, it is certain that the WhatsApp developers are already working on the possibility of detecting other threats (not just fake characters), as well as a button for users to report links, which would be very useful in campaigns. of phishing that they take place through this messaging tool.
What do you think of this new WhatsApp feature?
