A new time for WhatsApp privacy started in 2025. Passkey login and better chat controls help users keep chats safe. Many people worry about privacy when they send messages online. Recent surveys say 60% of U.S. adults and 40% of people worldwide have these worries. Now, WhatsApp privacy features let users lock chats and choose who sees their status. Users should think about how these updates keep their information safe, especially on WhatsApp Web.
Read More: SheetWA Privacy Extension for WhatsApp Web is a free tool designed to protect your privacy
Key Takeaways
WhatsApp's 2025 updates bring new privacy tools. Passkey login and chat locks help keep messages safe.
Users can choose who sees their profile and status. They can also hide read receipts to protect their info.
New features stop chat exports and limit media downloads. This keeps private info from leaving WhatsApp.
Two-step verification with passkeys makes logging in simple. It also helps protect accounts from hackers.
The SheetWA browser extension blurs chats on WhatsApp Web. It locks the screen to keep messages private in public places. Hidden Chats and Silent Group Exit help keep talks private.
They also help users avoid social pressure. Updating privacy settings often is important. Using tools like biometric locks makes chats safer.
Users should follow WhatsApp rules and get consent before messaging. They should also watch for anything suspicious.
WhatsApp Privacy in 2025
Key Updates
WhatsApp got new privacy updates in 2025. Many people use WhatsApp for business because it has strong end-to-end encryption. About 68% of users say this encryption makes them feel safe. The new version adds more privacy features and controls to keep building trust.
WhatsApp now shows ads in the Status feature. These ads only use a little data, like your country, language, and channels you follow. The platform does not use personal information for these ads. This helps with privacy worries. The EU wants to make sure WhatsApp follows strict data rules. Because of this, ads will not start until 2026. WhatsApp also made anti-spam rules tougher. Since April 1, 2025, marketing template messages stopped in the U.S. Only utility and authentication messages are allowed. Ads only show in Status, so private chats stay safe and encrypted.
Note: WhatsApp tells users about ad choices and Meta account data. Users must agree before ads use their data. This helps everyone have a safer experience.
WhatsApp is testing blockchain technology for ads. Blockchain tracks ads from start to finish. This helps stop fake ads and makes sure real people see them. Smart contracts help move money safely and make sure ads match what companies want.
Enhanced Controls
The 2025 update gives users more ways to control privacy. The “My Contacts Except” option lets you hide your profile photo from certain people. You do not have to block them. This is good for work or private situations. WhatsApp also stops people from taking screenshots of your profile photo. This keeps your pictures safe from being shared without your okay.
Users now get more control features:
Biometric Chat Lock: Lock chats with your fingerprint or Face ID. These chats do not show up in chat lists or notifications.
Screenshot & Screen Recording Block: Stop others from saving your chats in some conversations.
Self-Destructing Media 2.0: Make photos and videos disappear after a timer.
Privacy Dashboard: See which apps and contacts used your info and change settings easily.
Now, you can lock chats with your fingerprint or Face ID right in WhatsApp. You do not need other apps to do this. This keeps private chats safe one by one. These new features help users feel more in control and safe on WhatsApp.
Why WhatsApp Privacy Matters
User Expectations
People want strong privacy when they use messaging apps. They care about who can see their messages. They also want to know how companies use their information. Many WhatsApp users look for simple rules about data sharing. They want to control what happens to their data. Sharing with other companies worries them. Users expect WhatsApp to follow privacy laws like GDPR. Keeping chats safe from outsiders is very important.
They want to control sharing, especially with other companies.
Following privacy laws is very important.
Protecting private chats from outsiders matters a lot.
Many users agree to privacy policies without reading them because they are hard to understand.
Some people think about using other apps because of privacy worries, but most stay since their friends and family use WhatsApp.
Users want better privacy controls and more ways to handle their data.
WhatsApp now uses on-device AI processing. This helps keep user privacy safe. It also follows strict privacy rules. Users get more control over their data. These changes show WhatsApp listens to users and tries to protect privacy.
Read More: What is a WhatsApp Bulk Message Sender and How Does It Work?
A study found that privacy problems make people more careful. After a problem, users often change their privacy settings. They learn about risks but still share information. They want to stay connected. Trust is very important. When people trust an app, they feel safer and share more. If trust drops, people may use the app less or leave. Companies must balance business needs and user privacy to keep trust high.
Note: When users feel in control of privacy, they use features like end-to-end encryption and chat locks more. This helps keep private chats and information safe.
Security Risks
Security risks can hurt user privacy on messaging apps. Even with end-to-end encryption, some risks stay. Cybersecurity experts have found some common threats:
Security Risk Category | Explanation |
|---|---|
Metadata Collection | WhatsApp encrypts messages but collects metadata like timestamps and device IDs. This can show who talks to who. |
Cloud Backup Vulnerabilities | Cloud backups are not end-to-end encrypted, so message data could be seen if backups are accessed. |
Limited Transparency | Users cannot always see how Meta uses their data, which can lower trust. |
Lack of On-Premises Control | WhatsApp cannot be put on private servers, so groups have less control over security. |
Regulatory Non-Compliance | WhatsApp does not meet some government security rules, making it risky for sensitive use. |
Other risks include group chat problems, where someone can add members without asking, and link preview leaks, where URLs in chats might be seen by WhatsApp servers. These risks show that privacy needs more than just encryption. Users should stay alert and use privacy settings to protect themselves.
Experts say metadata can tell a lot about users, even if messages are private. Because of this, some groups do not use WhatsApp for sensitive work. They look for apps with stronger privacy, more openness, and better security rules.
New Features related to WhatsApp Privacy
Advanced Chat Privacy
WhatsApp added new privacy tools in 2025. These tools help keep chats safe from people you do not trust. They work for both group and single chats. This is helpful in big groups or forums. Sometimes, people in these groups do not know each other well.
Chat Export Blocking
Chat export blocking stops people from sending chat history or files outside WhatsApp. This keeps private info inside the app. For example, in a work group, no one can send secret messages or files to email or the cloud. This helps keep business and personal info safe. To turn it on, tap the chat name and pick advanced chat privacy. When it is on, everyone in the chat must follow the same rules. This makes sure all chats stay protected.
Media Download Controls
Media download controls stop photos, videos, and files from saving by themselves. You have to choose to save each file. This lowers the chance of getting bad or unwanted files. In family groups, parents can feel better knowing kids will not get unknown files. This also helps stop viruses from spreading in media files. By making downloads manual, WhatsApp gives users more privacy control.
AI Data Protection
AI data protection limits how AI features use chat messages. Advanced chat privacy blocks messages from being used by Meta AI. It also stops '@Meta AI' mentions in protected chats. This keeps private talks out of AI tools. But Meta AI can still see things like time, device, and user actions. Messages are still safe with end-to-end protection. But things typed to Meta AI or audio do not have the same strong protection. You cannot fully remove Meta AI from WhatsApp. But you can mute or avoid it in private chats.
Note: Advanced chat privacy does not stop people from taking screenshots or saving files by hand. It makes privacy better but does not make it perfect. The feature works best on new WhatsApp versions and newer phones.
Passkey Authentication
Passkey authentication changes how you keep your WhatsApp safe. Instead of passwords or codes, it uses special keys. The private key stays on your phone and is never shared. This helps stop attacks like SIM swaps or phishing. When you log in, you show you own the device and prove who you are. You might use Face ID or a PIN. This means you do not need passwords. It makes logging in easier and safer for everyone.
Chat Lock
Chat lock lets you lock chats with a fingerprint, Face ID, or PIN. Locked chats do not show up in the main list. You only see simple alerts for them. To open or send messages, you must unlock with your chosen way. This works for both group and single chats. If you share your phone, you can keep private chats hidden. Chat lock uses two steps: first, unlock the device, then enter a WhatsApp PIN or password. This makes it very hard for others to see locked chats, even if they have your phone. Alerts for locked chats do not show message details or names. They only show a basic notice. This helps keep private talks safe from others.
Tip: Use chat lock for any chat with private or secret info. This extra step keeps your important messages safe.
Hidden Chats
Hidden Chats help people keep their chats private. This tool works with other privacy tools to protect important information. You can lock whole chat folders with a fingerprint, face scan, or a PIN. The app locks these chats after you stop using them for a while. If someone opens your phone, they still cannot see these chats without the right check.
Read More: Top 5 Methods to Send WhatsApp Messages Without Saving Number
Hidden Chats use stealth mode to hide chats. Locked chats do not show in the main chat list. Only you can find them with a secret search or gesture. This extra privacy helps workers and anyone who needs to keep things secret. Better biometric access lets you use your fingerprint or face. You can also lock the whole WhatsApp app, not just one chat. This makes sure only you can open private messages.
Secret notifications give more protection. The app hides names and message previews in alerts. You can set a code or gesture to see these alerts after you unlock. This stops others from seeing your messages in public or shared places.
Multi-device privacy control warns you if a new device joins your WhatsApp. You can say yes or no to new devices and set time limits for them. This helps you keep your privacy on all your devices.
Hidden Chats have many good points:
Add more safety by needing a fingerprint or passcode.
Stop others from seeing chats by hiding them from the main list.
Keep private or work chats safe.
Help you sort chats by keeping work and personal chats apart.
There are some downsides. You must hide or unhide chats by hand, which can be a hassle. The archive tool is less safe because it does not need a password. Some new privacy tools are not out for everyone yet.
Tip: Use Hidden Chats with other privacy settings to keep your most important chats safe, especially if you share your phone or use it in public.
Read Receipts & Online Status
WhatsApp made read receipts and online status controls better. These changes let you choose who sees your activity and when you read messages.
Aspect | Privacy Improvement / Benefit | Trade-offs / Limitations |
|---|---|---|
Read Receipts Disabled | Stops others from knowing when you read messages. You can read in private. | You also cannot see if others read your messages. It works both ways. |
Pressure to Respond | Less pressure to reply fast. You can answer when you want. | May make things less clear, especially in group work or urgent chats. |
Group Chats Behavior | Blue ticks show only when all in the group read the message. You can see who read it. | Turning off read receipts does not change group chat read receipts. |
Voice Messages | Blue ticks always show for voice messages. | You cannot hide read info for voice messages. |
Communication Transparency | Lets you control what others see about your activity. | Less openness can make trust and clear talk harder. |
Verification Steps | You can check if blue ticks go away after reading. | No clear downside. |
Turning off read receipts lets you read messages without others knowing. This helps you avoid pressure to reply right away. But if you turn off read receipts, you also cannot see if others read your messages. In group chats, blue ticks show only when everyone reads the message. Voice messages always show blue ticks, even if you turn off read receipts.
Check your privacy settings often to stay in control. Some people use widgets to read messages without sending read receipts. These updates help you manage privacy but may make things less clear in urgent times.
Silent Group Exit
Silent Group Exit lets you leave group chats quietly. Only the group admin gets a notice when you leave. Other people in the group do not get any alert. This stops people from noticing when you leave and lowers social pressure.
Many people feel weird about leaving group chats. Silent Group Exit helps you leave without making a big deal. Others can still look at the group list to see who left, but they do not get a message about it.
Other privacy tools work well with Silent Group Exit. You can archive group chats to hide them and stop alerts. Muting group chats helps you avoid alerts without leaving. Turning off read receipts keeps others from knowing when you read messages. These tools together help you keep group chats private.
Note: Silent Group Exit is great for people who want to leave groups without others noticing or feeling awkward.
Two-Step Verification
Two-Step Verification (2SV) is a very important security tool in WhatsApp’s privacy tools for 2025. This tool gives user accounts extra protection. Before, WhatsApp made people set a six-digit PIN for 2SV. Many people did not like this because they had to remember the code and type it in when logging in or changing devices.
The 2025 update brings a big change. WhatsApp now uses passkeys for Two-Step Verification. Passkeys are digital keys that stay safe on your device. You do not have to remember them like a PIN. Your device checks who you are, often with your fingerprint or face. This makes logging in faster and safer. People do not have to worry about forgetting codes or someone else seeing them.
Tip: Passkeys help stop attacks like SIM swaps and phishing. Only the device owner can say yes to new logins, so it is much harder for others to get in.
More people use Two-Step Verification as they learn about online dangers. Studies show about 66% of people know about two-factor authentication. Of those, almost two out of three have turned it on for their accounts. Different groups use it in different ways:
Males use 2SV more than females.
People in their 30s and 40s use it the most.
Older adults, especially over 50, use it less.
Education helps people know about it, but does not change how many use it.
Two-Step Verification keeps users safe in real life. If someone tries to log in from a new device, WhatsApp asks for the passkey. Only the person with the right device can let the login happen. This stops hackers who steal passwords or SIM cards. In places where devices are shared, like family computers or public spots, 2SV makes sure only the owner can see private chats.
Here is a simple table that shows the old and new Two-Step Verification:
Feature | Old 2SV (PIN) | New 2SV (Passkey) |
|---|---|---|
User Action | Enter 6-digit PIN | Use device biometrics |
Memory Required | Yes | No |
Security Level | Moderate | High |
Attack Resistance | Vulnerable to phishing | Strong against phishing |
User Experience | Slower, less convenient | Fast, seamless |
Two-Step Verification works best with other privacy tools, like chat lock and passkey authentication. Users should turn on 2SV when they set up WhatsApp. Reminders help people keep their security strong.
Note: Two-Step Verification does not stop every risk. Users should still look out for strange activity and never let others use their device.
Two-Step Verification in WhatsApp 2025 makes accounts much safer. Passkeys make it easier and stronger for everyone. As more people use this tool, WhatsApp becomes a safer place for private chats.
SheetWA - WhatsApp Privacy Extension
Blur and Hover-to-Reveal
SheetWA helps keep WhatsApp Web private. Many people use WhatsApp in places like offices or libraries. Sometimes, others can see your screen. SheetWA blurs chats, pictures, and profile photos. Only you can see the details. If you move your mouse over something blurred, it becomes clear. This hover-to-reveal tool hides private info from others. It helps keep your chats safe in busy places.
SheetWA is a browser extension. It works with Chrome, Edge, and other browsers. The extension does not save or send your data. All privacy tools stay in your browser. This keeps your privacy strong. SheetWA works with WhatsApp Web and WhatsApp Business Web. It does not work with the desktop app.
Tip: Use SheetWA in coffee shops or open offices to keep chats private from people nearby.
Customizable Blur Options
SheetWA lets you choose what to blur on WhatsApp Web. You can pick from these blur options:
Blur chat messages and previews
Blur pictures and videos
Blur contact names and profile photos
Blur sidebar previews
You can turn each blur on or off for your needs. The hover-to-reveal tool works with all blurred things. You can check messages or pictures without showing everything. This helps with different privacy needs. Some people may only want to hide pictures. Others may want to blur all chats.
A password lock adds more safety. These tools work together to give you control over privacy on WhatsApp Web. SheetWA makes it easy to change settings for any place, like offices or libraries.
Tip: Check your blur settings often and change them to fit your space for the best privacy.
Privacy for Public Spaces
Lots of people use WhatsApp Web where others can see their screens. Places like offices, libraries, coffee shops, and classrooms often have shared computers. These places make it easier for others to see your screen. Private messages, photos, or work info might show up. People nearby could see things you want to keep private.
SheetWA helps with these problems using special privacy tools for public spaces. The blur tool hides chat messages, pictures, and profile photos. Only you can see them by moving your mouse over the blurred part. This stops others from seeing your private info by accident. The password lock gives extra safety. If you leave your computer, SheetWA locks WhatsApp Web. No one can open your chats without the right password.
Tip: Always turn on the blur tool before using WhatsApp Web in public. This easy step keeps your messages safe from people around you.
SheetWA lets you pick what you want to blur. Some people only blur chat previews. Others blur all pictures and contact names. This lets you match your privacy settings to where you are.
The table below shows how SheetWA keeps your chats safe in different places:
Public Space | Blur Feature Benefit | Password Lock Benefit |
|---|---|---|
Office | Hides work chats from coworkers | Stops access during breaks |
Library | Conceals messages from strangers | Secures chats on shared PCs |
Coffee Shop | Masks personal photos from others | Prevents snooping if unattended |
Classroom | Protects student info from peers | Blocks access after class ends |
Here are some good ways to use SheetWA in public:
Check blur settings before you log in.
Use the password lock if you walk away.
Try not to open private chats in crowded places.
Update the extension often for new privacy tools.
Log out of WhatsApp Web when you finish.
Note: SheetWA does not save or send your data anywhere. All privacy tools work right in your browser. This keeps your information safe.
SheetWA helps you control your privacy, even in busy places. With blur and password lock, you can keep your WhatsApp Web safe from others. These tools help you keep your chats private and give you peace of mind wherever you are.
Managing WhatsApp Privacy Settings
Customizing Controls
WhatsApp lets users change many privacy settings. In 2025, it added stronger encryption and more privacy choices. Now, users pick who can see their profile photo, last seen, and read receipts. These tools help people keep work, family, and friends apart. For example, you can hide your status from coworkers but show it to family. The app also lets you block mentions and messages from unknown group members. This helps stop spam and keeps chats on topic.
To change status privacy, go to the Status tab, tap the menu, and pick Status privacy. You will see three choices: 'My contacts', 'My contacts except…', and 'Only share with…'. The 'My contacts except…' choice hides updates from certain people. The 'Only share with…' choice lets you pick a group to see updates. Check these settings often, especially if your contacts change. The app also lets you control contact syncing. This keeps work and personal contacts apart. Turning off link previews in chats keeps things private and tidy. These controls help people feel sure their chats are safe from others.
Data Management
Managing data privacy on WhatsApp means taking steps to keep chats, media, and backups safe. The app has tools for this. You can lock the app or chats with your fingerprint or Face ID. This stops others from opening private messages. The Privacy Checkup tool helps you look at and change security settings, like blocked contacts and call safety.
The table below lists some key privacy features and how to use them:
Privacy Feature | Description | How to Enable / Use |
|---|---|---|
App Lock / Chat Lock | Locks WhatsApp or chats with biometrics. | Settings > Privacy > Lock Chat > Turn on with Fingerprint or Face ID. |
Privacy Checkup | Lets you review and change security settings. | Settings > Privacy > Privacy Checkup > Follow the steps. |
Blocking Unknown Accounts | Blocks unknown accounts that send too many messages. | Settings > Privacy > Advanced > Turn on Block unknown account messages. |
IP Address Protection in Calls | Hides your IP address during calls. | Settings > Privacy > Advanced > Turn on Protect IP Address in Calls. |
Disappearing Messages | Deletes messages after a set time. | Open chat > Tap Chat Name > Disappearing Messages > Pick a time. |
View Once Media | Lets media be seen only one time. | In chat, tap attachment icon > Pick media > Tap '1' icon before sending. |
Group Privacy Controls | Lets you pick who can add you to groups. | Settings > Privacy > Groups > Pick your choice. |
Users should name backups clearly and use folders to stay organized. Using encrypted backups keeps data safe from others. Check storage and internet often to avoid backup issues. These steps help keep your info safe and easy to find.
Staying Updated
It is important to know about new privacy features and updates. Always update WhatsApp from the app store to get the latest tools and fixes. Keeping your phone’s system updated also helps stop new threats. Users should check the WhatsApp Security Advisories page for news about problems and updates.
Follow WhatsApp’s official channels like the Privacy page, Help Center, and Blog. This helps you learn about new features and tips. WhatsApp works with experts to keep things safe. By checking these places, you get trusted info and can change your privacy settings fast.
Tip: After each app update, check your privacy settings. This easy step helps keep your chats and data safe.
Responsible Use and Limitations
User Consent
Using WhatsApp the right way means you must respect user consent. People and groups need to get clear permission before sending messages. This helps build trust and follows the law. Here are some good ways to get user consent:
Always ask for clear permission before sending a WhatsApp message.
Use strong opt-in steps so users know they agreed to get messages.
Give easy ways to stop messages so users can opt out anytime.
Do not send spam or unwanted messages. Limit how often you send messages and do not repeat them.
Only send messages at good times to respect people’s space.
Follow WhatsApp’s rules and never send lots of messages without permission.
Privacy is very important. Users want to know what happens to their data. Groups should explain their privacy rules in simple words. They should update these rules often and make them easy to find. When using data, only collect what you need and keep it safe. Users should always be able to see, delete, or move their data.
Note: Doing these things helps keep privacy safe and makes sure you follow the rules.
Manual Tracking
Users can take steps to watch their privacy settings and who sees their messages. Manual tracking helps keep accounts safe and stops unwanted access. Here are some important things to do:
Turn on two-step verification to keep your account safe from hackers.
Add an email for account recovery if you lose your phone number.
Check which devices are linked and log out of any you do not know.
Use screen locks and turn off message previews on lock screens to keep chats private.
Turn on app lock so WhatsApp locks after a short time of not using it.
Lock certain chats for more privacy, especially for private talks.
Use disappearing messages to delete chats after a set time.
Do not click strange links and never share private info like passwords or bank details.
Changing privacy settings lets users pick who can see their info. Blocking unwanted contacts and using fingerprint or Face ID locks adds more safety. Checking privacy settings often helps make sure they fit your needs, especially if you use more than one account on a device.
WhatsApp Policy Compliance
Following WhatsApp’s privacy policy is very important for everyone, but especially for businesses and banks. The newest rules say you must keep records of all chats for many years. These records must be easy to find for checks. Encryption and monitoring tools help keep client info safe. Many groups now use AI tools to watch for rule breaks and report them right away.
Here is a table that shows the main compliance rules:
Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
Record Keeping | |
Audit Accessibility | Make sure records can be checked for 2 years |
Encryption | Use strong encryption for all client info |
Monitoring | Use tools to watch and report in real time |
Policy Updates | Update rules and train workers often |
WhatsApp’s privacy policy also covers new things like chatting with Meta AI and better group controls. Users should learn about these changes. Training and checking rules often helps everyone follow the rules and keep privacy safe.
Tip: Always use privacy-friendly monitoring tools that work with your own devices. This helps you follow the rules and keeps your privacy safe.
WhatsApp’s new privacy features and SheetWA browser tools help keep chats safe everywhere. They work together to protect both personal and work conversations. Users can use this checklist to make privacy better:
Privacy Feature | Description |
|---|---|
Control Who Sees Your Info | Change who can see your last seen, profile photo, and status. |
Turn Off Read Receipts | Stop read receipts to get more privacy in chats. |
Block and Report Contacts | Block or report people or messages you do not want. |
Manage Message Backups | Take care with backups to keep chats private. |
Use SheetWA Blur and Lock | Blur chats and lock WhatsApp Web for more privacy in public places. |
Check your privacy settings often to keep your info safe. Sending messages the right way keeps everyone protected. Share these tips with friends so they can stay private on WhatsApp too.
FAQ
What is the main benefit of WhatsApp’s new privacy features in 2025?
WhatsApp’s new privacy tools let users control their info better. These updates help keep chats, photos, and accounts safe. Now, users can pick who sees their data and make chats more private.
How does SheetWA protect privacy on WhatsApp Web?
SheetWA hides chats, pictures, and profile photos until you move your mouse over them. It also has a password lock to stop others from opening WhatsApp Web without your okay. These tools help keep messages private in public or shared places.
Can users block chat exports in group conversations?
Yes. WhatsApp’s chat export block stops people from sending chat history or files outside the app. This keeps private info safe in both work and personal group chats.
What is passkey authentication, and why is it safer?
Passkey authentication uses things like Face ID or fingerprints instead of passwords. The private key stays on your device. This helps stop phishing and SIM swap attacks, so your account is safer.
Does SheetWA store any personal data?
No. SheetWA runs all privacy tools right in your browser. It does not save or send any chat data or personal info to other places. Your privacy stays safe all the time.
How can users keep WhatsApp chats private in public places?
Users can turn on SheetWA’s blur tool to hide chats and use the password lock for more safety. These settings help stop others from seeing private messages on shared or public computers.
What should users do if they notice suspicious activity on their WhatsApp account?
Users should change their password, turn on two-step verification, and check linked devices. Blocking unknown contacts and checking privacy settings also helps keep accounts safe. For big problems, users should contact WhatsApp support.
Are WhatsApp backups encrypted?
WhatsApp has encrypted backups, but users need to turn this on in settings. Encrypted backups keep chat data safe from others, even if someone gets the backup files.