New Delhi. Not every unsolicited message that comes on WhatsApp is normal. Cyber fraudsters often first send a simple message and as the conversation progresses they ask the user to provide personal information, money or click on a link. In many cases, fraudsters put pressure on a person to take a quick decision so that the person commits a mistake without thinking. To protect users from similar scams, WhatsApp is now testing a new Scam Alert feature. This system being introduced by Meta is being prepared to warn the user about possible danger by identifying suspicious messages and conversation patterns.
According to the report, this feature is currently in the testing phase and its indications have been found in the beta version. Its special thing is that on-device machine learning will be used to identify suspicious activities. That means the feature can be analyzed on the user's smartphone only. On-device processing is intended to increase security while maintaining privacy. WhatsApp has previously reported the use of on-device technology to identify suspicious URLs.
The focus of the new Scam Alert system is being said to be especially on suspicious messages coming from unknown numbers. If a conversation shows a pattern that resembles common cyber scams, the system may display a warning to the user. For example, if someone suddenly asks for personal information or is pressurizing for payment or asking for immediate action, then such activity can be considered suspicious.
An important aspect of this feature is that the user can get options for further action instead of just giving a warning and leaving. After the warning banner appears, the user can block that chat or report it. If the user feels that the warning is inappropriate, an option to remove it may also be available. This can be especially helpful for those who find it difficult to identify new methods of cyber fraud.
It has also been told in the report that the user may have to activate this Scam Alert system manually. For this, you will have to go to Settings of WhatsApp and activate the related option. It can also be closed if needed. However, the feature is still in testing, so its options and working method may be slightly different in the final version.
In today's time, WhatsApp has become an important medium of contact for cyber fraudsters. Be it fake job offers or messages showing fear related to banks and income tax or luring talks in the name of investment, scammers are constantly adopting new methods. In such a situation, this feature of WhatsApp can provide an additional layer of security. However, despite any warning, the user himself will have to be careful. One should avoid clicking on unknown links and should not share OTP password, bank details or other sensitive information with anyone.