WhatsApp to Introduce New Privacy Feature Allowing Users to Control Phone Number Visibility
WhatsApp is developing a new privacy feature that will enable users to control who can view their phone numbers when utilizing usernames. This feature, currently in development for Android and identified in WhatsApp beta version 2.26.45.1, aims to enhance user privacy. Previously, when a user established a username, individuals not in their contacts could not see their phone number. The upcoming update will introduce a dedicated privacy setting with four options: 'Everyone,' 'My contacts,' 'My contacts except,' and 'Nobody.' Users will be able to select who sees their number, ranging from all users to only specific contacts, or to hide it entirely from those who don't already possess it. By default, for users with a username, the 'Nobody' option will be pre-selected, ensuring their phone numbers remain hidden from new contacts made via usernames. WhatsApp will also issue a warning if users alter this setting, indicating that previous exceptions lists will be reset, potentially making their numbers visible ...
