The popular messenger service WhatsApp is currently working on a practical function for its users. In the future it should be possible to automatically block unknown callers.
Regardless of whether you generally like to make phone calls or not – nobody likes being called from an unknown number. Behind it are often surveys, dubious advertising ploys or just spam. Unknown numbers can also call via WhatsApp. However, the messenger service wants to change that fundamentally. A new function is to automatically block unknown calls on WhatsApp. This is known about the feature so far.
Block unknown calls on WhatsApp
There are already various ways to block numbers or callers on WhatsApp. So far, however, it was necessary to have been in contact with the number before. This should change with the new function. The feature is currently still in the beta phase, but experience has shown that WhatsApp can roll out a new function very quickly – especially if the feedback from users is positive. If you want to test yourself how to block unknown calls, then sign up as a WhatsApp beta tester.
The function is of course optional and should probably not be preset for the rollout either. Anyone who uses WhatsApp for work, for example, would of course not want callers to be unable to get through to them. When activated, the feature is intended to mute calls from unknown numbers via WhatsApp and only display them afterwards. Then you can still decide whether to call the number back or not.
Block Contacts and Numbers on WhatsApp
As already mentioned, there are currently ways to block unwanted contacts on WhatsApp. On the one hand, this is possible via the messenger settings, but only if you have also saved the number as a contact.
- To do this, go into the app, tap on “More options” and then “Settings”.
- Go to the “Privacy” tab and then to “Blocked Contacts”.
- There you can use the “Add” button to put a contact or a number on the block list.
Alternatively, this is also possible in the chat with the person concerned.
- Open the chat and tap More Options, then More.
- Now the option “Block” is available to you. You can even use this button to decide whether you want to “Block” or even “Report and Block” the person. The message then ends up on WhatsApp and is checked accordingly.