Home WhatsApp privacy with new call IP address hiding

WhatsApp privacy with new call IP address hiding

According to a Nov. 8 announcement by Meta Platforms, its popular messaging app WhatsApp has rolled out a new privacy feature that hides users’ IP addresses during voice and video calls. This change aims to give users more control over their privacy and prevent the unintentional sharing of location data.

Do IP addresses display too much identity on calls?

IP addresses can convey location information and identify the internet service provider being used. In standard peer-to-peer calling, both parties see each other’s IP addresses to connect the call. With the new setting enabled, WhatsApp routes all calls through its servers instead of establishing a direct peer-to-peer connection.

“With this feature enabled, all your calls will be relayed through WhatsApp’s servers, ensuring that other parties in the call cannot see your IP address and subsequently deduce your general geographical location,” reads the announcement.

This approach blocks the parties on a call from viewing each other’s IP addresses.

The setting is optional and must be manually activated by each user in the app’s privacy settings. WhatsApp stressed that even with IP hiding disabled, calls are still protected by end-to-end encryption.

The “Protect IP Address” feature follows another major privacy update earlier this year. WhatsApp introduced the ability to block calls from unknown numbers altogether. The “Silence Unknown Callers” setting aims to reduce unwanted contact and potential cyberattack vectors.

Both new privacy tools exemplify WhatsApp’s efforts to balance enhanced user security with the convenience and quality of service people expect from calling apps. Hiding IP addresses prevents inadvertent location sharing but adds latency by routing calls through WhatsApp’s servers. Blocking unknown callers increases privacy but potentially filters out wanted calls too.

WhatsApp continues working to make its platform more private and secure.

The Facebook-owned company claims to have over 2 billion users worldwide relying on its encrypted messaging and calling. As concerns over data privacy grow, WhatsApp hopes features like IP address protection will ease users’ concerns while maintaining the functionality they desire.

The “Protect IP Address” update is rolling out now on iOS and Android. Users can activate the setting by going to Account > Privacy > IP Address. WhatsApp’s latest privacy measures aim to give users more control over their information.

Featured Image Credit: Photo by Anton; Pexels; Thank you!

About ReadWrite’s Editorial Process

The ReadWrite Editorial policy involves closely monitoring the gambling and blockchain industries for major developments, new product and brand launches, game releases and other newsworthy events. Editors assign relevant stories to in-house staff writers with expertise in each particular topic area. Before publication, articles go through a rigorous round of editing for accuracy, clarity, and to ensure adherence to ReadWrite's style guidelines.

Radek Zielinski
Tech Journalist

Radek Zielinski is an experienced technology and financial journalist with a passion for cybersecurity and futurology.

Get the biggest iGaming headlines of the day delivered to your inbox

    By signing up, you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy. Unsubscribe anytime.

    Gambling News

    Explore the latest in online gambling with our curated updates. We cut through the noise to deliver concise, relevant insights, keeping you informed about the ever-changing world of iGaming and its most important trends.

    In-Depth Strategy Guides

    Elevate your game with tailored strategies for sports betting, table games, slots, and poker. Learn how to maximize bonuses, refine your tactics, and boost your chances to beat the house.

    Unbiased Expert Reviews

    Honest and transparent reviews of sportsbooks, casinos and poker rooms crafted through industry expertise and in-depth analysis. Delve into intricacies, get the best bonus deals, and stay ahead with our trustworthy guides.