The instant messaging service WhatsApp, which is owned by Meta, has introduced a new function to improve group chat security.
Referred to as “context cards,” this feature aims to address the common problem of online group fraud by preventing members from being added to groups by strangers.
According to a press statement from WhatsApp, the global deployment of context cards has already started and is anticipated to be accessible to all users in the upcoming weeks.
When users receive group invites from contacts who are not saved on their phone, the context card function offers more details. The card has information about the group’s originator as well as specifics like the group’s founding date and a succinct statement of its goals. Users are able to join new groups with greater knowledge thanks to this additional background.
Context cards seem to offer very little information, but their purpose is to give consumers enough information to make an informed decision about whether or not to accept a group invitation. In addition, people who have doubts about the authenticity of the invitation have the option to report, block, or unsubscribe from groups.
The new feature was unveiled by WhatsApp CEO Cathcart on his channel within the app, with a focus on how it could shield users from common online group scams.
