2023-08-29 13:19:33
A new security feature is being tested in the latest WhatsApp beta. The option allows you to hide your IP address during a call, but there is a slight twist.
Credit: 123RF
That mobile instant messaging are secure, that seems obvious to us today. Our exchanges are end-to-end encryptedwhether on Telegram, Signal, Messenger, or WhatsApp. The latter does not rest on its laurels, however, and regularly offers new security features. They first go through a test phase on the beta version accessible by registering for the dedicated program.
Numbered 2.23.18.15, the latest includes an option that can be activated and deactivated at will. Entitled “Protecting the IP address during calls” (or “on call”, depending on the translation that will be retained), it makes detecting your IP less easy. As a reminder, knowing someone’s IP makes it possible to locate the area in which they are located. It doesn’t give the exact location of course, but it’s still a problem, especially if you live in a place where there are few inhabitants.
WhatsApp hides your IP address during a call at the cost of degraded quality
Pour camouflage your IP addressWhatsApp actually goes route the call through its own servers. It is therefore an additional layer of protection that is added to the encryption of your conversations. In return, the application warns that it will have a negative impact on the quality of the call. No details are given on the degree of degradation. We assume all the same that it will not be to the point of no longer hearing the interlocutor, which would make the option useless.
Also read – WhatsApp improves privacy in Communities by hiding your phone number
Since there is no indication to the contrary, we can assume that it will work for audio and video calls. Once available, the function will display in Settings > Privacy > Calls. In the same place as the option to mute calls from unknown numbers. It is not known exactly when it will be rolled out to all users. Also remember that on September 1, many smartphone models will no longer be compatible with WhatsApp.
Source : WABetaInfo
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