WhatsApp has recently introduced a new feature that displays a label confirming end-to-end encryption (E2EE) within individual and group conversations. This label serves to assure users that the messages sent and received are encrypted and that WhatsApp does not store any of the information. This development comes in the wake of Meta’s concerns about implementing third-party chats in Europe due to issues with E2EE and the delays caused by the Digital Markets Act (DMA).
The new encryption visibility feature was first spotted by WABetaInfo in WhatsApp beta for Android 2.24.6.11, which was released to some beta testers on March 9 through the Google Play Beta Program. The report suggests that the feature is still undergoing testing with a limited release, indicating that it is in the early stages of development and may undergo further changes before a full rollout.
According to the report, the new label appears below the contact or group name in the chat interface, preceded by a lock icon. The label disappears after a few seconds, displaying the last seen status in individual chats and the names of participants in group conversations. This additional layer of encryption visibility aims to provide users with a clear indication of the encryption status within the app.
The introduction of this label suggests that WhatsApp is taking a proactive approach to remind users of the encryption status in a readily visible location. This proactive measure may help users stay informed about the security of their messages, especially in light of Meta’s recent warnings about the risks associated with encryption in third-party chats in Europe.
Meta, the parent company of WhatsApp, has expressed concerns about the encryption of third-party chats in Europe. While Meta ensures encryption for WhatsApp users and data in transit using the Signal protocol-based Noise Protocol Framework, it cannot guarantee the same level of security once the data reaches the third-party platform. In response to these concerns, Meta has encouraged messaging apps to sign agreements and adopt secure protocols like the Signal protocol to uphold encryption standards.
WhatsApp’s new end-to-end encryption label feature serves as a visible reminder of the app’s commitment to security and user privacy. By enhancing encryption visibility within individual and group chats, WhatsApp aims to empower users with better control over their data security and encryption settings. This update aligns with the industry-wide focus on strengthening encryption standards and ensuring secure communication channels for users around the world.
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