Messaging giant WhatsApp is rolling out a new safety feature designed to help users better evaluate and exit unfamiliar group chats, as part of a broader effort to tackle rising scam activity on the platform.

The safety overview feature, announced on Tuesday (Aug 6), activates when users are added to a WhatsApp group by someone not in their contacts. Instead of being thrust directly into the conversation, users will first be shown a summary with key information about the group and safety tips, giving them the option to exit immediately—without needing to read any messages.

Notifications from these unknown groups will remain muted unless the user chooses to stay, allowing them to assess the situation without pressure.

The feature is the latest in WhatsApp’s suite of anti-scam measures, which include two-step verification, context cards, and options to block or report suspicious activity. Users can also silence unknown callers—a tactic increasingly used by scammers for phishing and impersonation attempts.

Warning Signs Before You Chat

Recognising that scams often begin outside of WhatsApp, such as on social media or job platforms, the company is also trialling new warnings when users initiate chats with people not in their contact list.

These alerts aim to provide additional context about the recipient before users engage in a conversation, potentially preventing them from falling into scam traps that start with seemingly innocent outreach.

Over 6.8 Million Scam Accounts Banned in Six Months

Beyond user-side protections, WhatsApp and parent company Meta have stepped up enforcement actions targeting organised scam operations—many of which are run out of scam centres linked to organised crime and forced labour in Southeast Asia.

In the first half of 2025 alone, over 6.8 million accounts associated with scam syndicates were proactively banned, WhatsApp revealed. These accounts were identified and removed before they could be used to deceive or defraud users.

Staying Safe on Private Messaging Apps

WhatsApp advises users to be cautious when receiving messages promising quick financial returns, particularly from unknown numbers. Users are urged to customise their privacy settings, conduct regular privacy checkups, and always ensure they’re using the official app to avoid malicious imitations.