WhatsApp Rolls Out New Anti-Scam Tools: Silence Unknown Callers, Context Cards and More

WhatsApp is promoting a group of five anti-scam tools that aim to protect users from digital fraud and suspicious online behaviour. The company said scams now often involve fake identities, bogus companies, and misleading one-time passwords designed to create panic and push people into revealing private information.

According to WhatsApp, these safety tools work together as layered protection. They help users secure accounts, spot unusual activity, and decide who can contact them. Features include Silence Unknown Callers, Context Cards, screen share alerts, device linking warnings, and Two-Step Verification for stronger login security.

WhatsApp Anti-scam Tools for Account Security

WhatsApp recommends switching on Two-Step Verification for extra protection against account takeovers. This feature adds a six-digit PIN that is required whenever someone resets or verifies a WhatsApp account. It helps guard users if scammers try to access accounts using stolen verification codes.

The Silence Unknown Callers feature focuses on suspicious calls. When turned on, it automatically mutes calls from numbers that are not saved in the contact list. These calls still appear in the Calls tab and notification area, so users can check them later without facing live disturbance or pressure.

WhatsApp Anti-scam Tools to Assess Unknown Contacts

Context Cards in individual and group chats give users more detail about unfamiliar accounts. They indicate whether the sender is stored as a contact, if there are shared groups, whether the number is from another country, and if the account is new. Users can then choose to reply, save, block, or report.

WhatsApp said scammers usually exploit fear and urgency, hoping that targets react before spotting warning signs. Context Cards are meant to slow that process. By displaying quick background information about the sender, they offer an extra moment for users to judge if a message looks genuine or suspicious.

WhatsApp Anti-scam Tools for Calls and Linked Devices

WhatsApp also issues warnings when someone tries to share their screen with an unknown contact during a video call. The company said criminals may ask for screen sharing to capture banking details, verification codes, or other confidential information. The alert gives users clear context before they decide whether to continue.

Another part of WhatsApp anti-scam tools is alerts for unusual device-linking attempts. Scammers might persuade users to connect their WhatsApp account to another device using false reasons. When behaviour signals suggest risk, WhatsApp shows where the linking request came from and warns it may be a scam, prompting users to reconsider approval.

WhatsApp said these anti-scam tools together are intended to give users more control and awareness during chats, calls, and account management. People who want further detail about safety and privacy settings can find more information on the official website of WhatsApp, which outlines all available protections.