WhatsApp Begins Testing Feature to Verify Sender Identity, Combatting Fraud
MOUNTAIN VIEW, CA – March 12, 2025 - whatsapp is rolling out a new feature designed to enhance user security by allowing beta testers to verify the names associated with phone numbers, a move aimed at curbing fraud and identity theft. The feature, currently limited to iPhone users participating in the TestFlight beta program, displays the name a contact has associated with their number, providing an additional layer of contact verification beyond just the phone number itself.
The update addresses growing concerns surrounding WhatsApp security, including QR code fraud and impersonation. Many users receive messages from unfamiliar numbers, and identifying the sender by name offers increased peace of mind and informed decision-making regarding message handling.
“These types of measures allow users to avoid risks and protect their privacy without losing the convenience of instant messaging,” digital security analysts explain.
currently, the TestFlight program is full and not accepting new participants, meaning wider availability is contingent on future updates. WhatsApp has not announced an official launch date but typically releases new features gradually after testing.
This feature is part of a broader effort by WhatsApp to bolster security, including improvements to message encryption, stronger two-step authentication, more granular profile privacy controls, and new identity verification options.
While the feature isn’t yet available to all users, WhatsApp recommends taking the following precautions:
* Do not open suspicious links from unknown numbers.
* Check the profile photo and description of contacting numbers.
* Promptly block and report impersonators.
* Activate two-step verification in the app’s settings.
More information on WhatsApp’s new security measures can be found hear.
