WhatsApp continues its streak of introducing security features with the new ability to block screenshots of profile pictures. Notably, the feature has been in testing since February but is now rolling out widely to users worldwide. This is a server-side update and is rolling out gradually to users worldwide.
WhatsApp Begins Blocking Profile Picture Screenshots
WhatsApp has now pushed a server-side update, which will block people from taking screenshots of profile pictures. Now, when users take a screenshot, a black screenshot is saved. This feature is enabled by default and there is no way to disable it.
In the past, WhatsApp used to allow users to save profile pictures of their contacts, which was a serious privacy breach. The Meta-owned instant messaging platform soon removed the option to save profile pictures. However, users could still screenshot profile pictures, which defeated the purpose.
WhatsApp has been testing the new feature on the beta version since February 2024. When beta users tried taking screenshots of a profile picture, the app displayed a warning message explaining why a screenshot couldn’t be taken. However, the stable release doesn’t show any warning and saves a blank screenshot instead. At present, Meta hasn’t made an official announcement and the feature isn’t available for all. We expect it to arrive for all gradually.
In light of the recent third-party app support announcement from the platform to comply with DMA, the new feature will be crucial to protect the privacy of WhatsApp users. It comes in addition to the ability to block spam from the lock screen, a helpline to tackle AI-generated fake news, and much more.
How To Block WhatsApp Profile Pictures Screenshots?
As mentioned before, the new feature will be enabled by default, so, there’s no process to follow. However, you can protect your profile picture by choosing the people who can see it. Here’s how to enable profile picture visibility.
- On the WhatsApp app, head to the Settings.
- Tap on the Privacy option and select the Profile Photo.
- Choose from Everyone, My Contacts, My Contacts Except (you must choose which contacts can’t see your profile picture), and Nobody.
