WhatsApp Scam Alert Feature: On turning on the feature, a machine learning model will be downloaded on the phone. This model will work within the device itself and will specifically check messages from people who are not included in the user’s contact list. It will try to identify patterns associated with previously reported scams.
WhatsApp Scam Message Detection: WhatsApp has started testing the ‘Scam Alert’ feature to protect users from online scams and fraud messages. Its limited beta rollout has started for some selected users from August 12, 2026. This is an optional feature, which the user can turn on or off as per his need.
How will Scam Alert work?
On turning on the feature, a machine learning model will be downloaded to the phone. This model will work within the device itself and will specifically check messages from people who are not included in the user’s contact list. It will try to identify patterns associated with previously reported scams.
You will get warning on fake messages
If the model detects a scam-like pattern in a chat, the user will see a warning in the chat. This warning will be visible only to the user. After this the user can block or report that person or continue the conversation. In case of false warning, there will also be an option to mark the chat as Trusted.
Privacy will be taken care of
According to Meta, the biggest feature of this feature is that it works without affecting end-to-end encryption. The content of the message is not sent outside the phone for verification. That means the message does not go to WhatsApp, Meta or any other party.
Only limited data will be shared
According to the company, very limited data can be shared for testing the features and checking their functionality. It is processed in a secure confidential computing environment.
Researchers will help in security investigation
Meta has also expanded its Bug Bounty Program to strengthen the security of this system. External security researchers will be able to investigate the features and report to the company if any shortcomings are found. You will be able to see the activity related to Scam Alert by going to your settings. However, currently this feature is available only for selected users and will be launched for the rest later.