In October 2022, WhatsApp rolled out a feature for beta users which prevented users from taking screenshots of images and videos meant to be viewed once. The feature is now more widely available on iOS and Android. Similar to how apps like Google Pay and Snapchat prevent users from taking photos or videos of transactions and snaps, WhatsApp now turns the screen black if you try to record or screenshot any message sent as 'View Once'. WhatsApp's official Twitter handle also posted about the feature, which you can check out below. Because “view once” means “view once” 🙅📸 pic.twitter.com/LFXKxuaQKx — WhatsApp (@WhatsApp) January 23, 2023 Keep in mind that users cannot share, star, save or forward any messages that were sent or received meant to be viewed once. The media you send using 'View Once' will not be saved to the recipient's device. But also if you send a 'view once' message to someone who is on an older version of WhatsApp, they still might be able to screenshot view once media. WhatsApp also advises users to send 'view once' photos or videos to trusted contacts because people can still record the media using an external camera or some other device. How to send 'View once' messages on WhatsApp To send a view once media, open WhatsApp on your phone and head over to the individual chat or group where you intend to share the media. Now, tap on the attach icon and either tap on the camera option to take a new photo or video or choose the gallery option to select an existing photo or video from your phone. When done, tap on the icon with the number one in a circle that appears on the right of the 'Add a caption' field and hit send. Once the recipient opens the media, you will see an open receipt in the chat. To open view once media, tap on the message and you are good to go.
