What's Happening?
WhatsApp is reportedly developing a new feature called 'guest chats' that will enable individuals without a WhatsApp account to engage in one-on-one encrypted chats with users who have an account. This feature, discovered in a beta build by WABetaInfo, allows a WhatsApp user to invite a non-user to chat via a link, which can be shared through various platforms such as text, email, or social media. The invited guest does not need to have the app installed or an account to participate in the chat. However, the feature will not support group chats, voice, or video messages. Meta, the owner of WhatsApp, has not commented on this development.
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Why It's Important?
The introduction of guest chats on WhatsApp could significantly impact user engagement and accessibility, allowing more people to use the platform without the need for an account. This aligns with the European Union's Digital Services Act, which encourages interoperability between messaging services. However, cybersecurity experts, like Chuck Brooks, warn of potential risks such as malware, fraud, and privacy issues due to interactions with unknown contacts. This feature could lead to increased phishing attempts and unwanted interactions, posing challenges for user safety and privacy.
What's Next?
As WhatsApp rolls out this feature, it may face scrutiny from cybersecurity experts and regulatory bodies concerned about user privacy and security. Meta might need to implement additional safeguards to protect users from potential threats associated with guest chats. The company could also explore expanding the feature to include more functionalities while ensuring robust security measures.
