WhatsApp introduces 'guest chats' feature: Security specialists in the UAE raise concerns over potential identity theft threats
WhatsApp, the popular messaging app, is developing a new feature called 'Guest Chats'. This feature allows users to chat with non-WhatsApp account holders, but concerns have been raised about its potential cybersecurity risks. According to WABetaInfo, a website that regularly publishes news and updates about WhatsApp, the new feature will allow users to send a link to non-users to initiate a chat. However, without an account, attackers can easily impersonate others, making trust difficult to establish between parties. The sender of a 'Guest Chat' on WhatsApp is a verified WhatsApp account. This means that Meta, the company behind WhatsApp, has the sender's WhatsApp account details stored for reporting, investigating, and blocking abusive users. However, without registration inside WhatsApp, the recipient of a 'Guest Chat' does not have an account, which could potentially make them vulnerable to attacks. The recipient's identity in a 'Guest Chat' is confirmed through the channel the link is sent to, but if the sender's number or profile is hidden, the recipient cannot confirm who is contacting them. If the sender's number or profile is shown, both parties have some verification. Haider Pasha, chief security officer at Palo Alto Networks EMEA, has expressed concerns about the new feature. He stated that it could potentially lead to cybersecurity risks, with attackers exploiting the anonymity feature to launch social engineering attacks or spread malicious links. To protect oneself after the expected roll out of 'Guest Chats', users are advised to use two-factor authentication, avoid clicking on unfamiliar links, and share personal information cautiously. Additionally, users are advised to be extra cautious when connecting with someone they don't know due to the potential risks associated with the new feature. It is also important to note that the 'Guest Chats' feature is still in its development phase and has not yet reached the beta phase. Ideally, WhatsApp should allow users to revoke or end a 'Guest Chat' session at will, providing users with more control over their interactions. While the name of the security chief of Palo Alto Networks EMEA mentioned in the article about the new WhatsApp feature 'Guest Chats' is not stated in the provided search results, it is clear that concerns about the feature's potential risks are being raised by cybersecurity experts. It is hoped that WhatsApp will address these concerns and implement measures to ensure the safety and security of its users.
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