WhatsApp working on a more private message reporting system

Dhruv Bhutani / Android Authority

TL;DR

• WhatsApp is working on a new message reporting system.
• The feature will allow users to report single messages to WhatsApp from contacts or businesses.
• This seems an alternative to the contact reporting system already available.

WhatsApp came under stiff scrutiny for an investigation into its message reporting and moderation system earlier this month. Now, the company is seemingly working on a new, more concise method for users to report messages. According to details spotted by WABetaInfo, the latest WhatsApp beta version on Android brings the ability to report single, specific messages to WhatsApp.

The current contact reporting system sends the offending message and the previous four to WhatsApp. The additional messages seemingly give the company more context to decide whether or not to ban a contact. The new feature now seemingly lets users highlight a single message, whether from an individual chat, a group discussion, or a business account.

When selecting a specific message, those running WhatsApp beta version 2.21.20.1 will see a new drop-down option. Tapping this option opens a dialog that also allows users to block the offending business or contact.

It’s unclear when the feature will land on stable builds, but the timing does suggest its development is a response to the recent moderation outcry. The single message reporting feature does seem a more privacy-friendly way to report contacts.

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