WhatsApp users' security to get a boost; new AI feature to detect scams—when will it launch?

WhatsApp users no longer need to worry about online scams, as the platform is preparing to use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to protect them. The company is currently testing a new "Scam Detection" feature designed to identify suspicious activity within chats and warn users promptly. It can issue alerts, particularly when messages from unknown numbers exhibit signs of potential fraud.

Once this feature is rolled out, WhatsApp will be able to warn users if someone asks for money, makes a fake offer, lures them with promises of a lottery or prize, or asks them to click on a suspicious link via message. However, the feature is currently in the testing phase, and the company has not yet announced a release date for all users.

How will AI detect scams?
Users will be able to enable the Scam Detection feature through their settings. Once activated, an AI model will be downloaded to the phone. It will specifically monitor message and chat patterns, particularly those involving unknown contacts. If the system detects signs of fraud during a conversation, it will display a warning to the user.

The user will then have the option to block or report the sender. Alternatively, if the chat appears legitimate, the user can deem it safe. Thus, the feature aims to warn users beforehand rather than simply taking action after a fraud has occurred.

Will WhatsApp be able to view private chats?

A major question regarding this feature concerns user privacy. WhatsApp’s primary security measure is end-to-end encryption; consequently, users might wonder if WhatsApp will be able to read their messages if AI is analyzing them. The company has clarified this point: the feature will operate locally on the phone itself. There will be no need to send the entire chat to the company's servers for analysis, as the AI ​​model will attempt to identify suspicious patterns directly on the device. Meta states that this process will not compromise the security provided by end-to-end encryption. 

When will this feature be available?
Currently, scam detection is undergoing testing. It has not yet been released to all WhatsApp users. The company will first verify whether the feature can accurately identify suspicious messages. Once testing is complete and the feature is stable, it will be rolled out to a wider user base.

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