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WhatsApp users will soon interact with strangers without revealing phone numbers after the messaging platform introduced unique feature designed to protect users’ personal information, particularly in group chats and first-time conversations.
Traditionally phone numbers are visible to strangers.
The new feature marks the latest effort by parent company Meta to strengthen privacy while introducing new business tools and revenue-generating features across its platforms.
“When you meet someone new, whether it’s a classmate, a neighbour or someone you meet at an event, sharing a phone number can feel like a big step,” WhatsApp Vice President of Product Alice Newton-Rex told international media. “People will need to know your exact username to contact you for the first time.”
