WhatsApp to soon get ‘protect IP address’ feature for calls

WhatsApp's latest beta feature is aimed at enhancing user privacy by hiding their IP address and location from third party threat actors.

The upcoming feature helps you hide your IP address. (Image Source: Unsplash)

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WhatsApp is working on a new feature that enhances user privacy by adding an extra layer of security when users use the app’s calling functionality. The instant messaging platform recently added a new toggle called ‘Protect IP address in calls’, which as the name suggests, prevents malicious threat actors from getting your location and eavesdrop on calls.

First spotted by WABetaInfo, the new option is currently available on the latest WhatsApp beta for Android and iOS and works by relaying your calls through WhatsApp servers.

The toggle description notes that call quality may take a slight dip, but does not offer any other details. It can be found by heading over to a new Advanced’ sub-section under ‘Privacy’ settings. Even if you enable the feature, WhatsApp says all your calls will be protected via end-to-end encryption, meaning no one including WhatsApp will be able to listen to your conversation.

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Here’s what the toggle looks like. (Image Source: WABetaInfo)

Currently, the toggle might be visible for select users on the beta version of the app, but the company plans to make it available to everyone in the future. However, WhatsApp has yet to confirm the exact date on when the toggle will be available on the stable version.

In the last few months, WhatsApp developers have been working on new features like a ‘Secret Code’ for locked chats and a new toggle that lets users disable instant video message shortcuts in the chat. The messaging app recently introduced a Telegram-like Channels feature that lets you follow your favourite influencers, celebrities and people.

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