WhatsApp’s latest beta version (2.25.7.3 for Android) includes a new privacy feature that allows users to disable their video before accepting a video call. Currently, users must either accept the video call with their camera active or quickly turn it off after accepting. This forces users to momentarily expose their surroundings or scramble to cover their camera, a clear privacy concern.
The new feature, discovered by Android Authority, adds a toggle button to the incoming video call screen. This allows users to easily switch their video on or off before answering. When video is disabled, the “Swipe up to accept” prompt changes to “Accept without video,” confirming the call will start without video.
Feature to turn off video on WhatsApp.
This simple change has significant implications for user privacy and security. Beyond simply hiding a messy room or unexpected background, the feature can help protect against certain types of scams. In some cases, scammers initiate video calls with unsuspecting users, displaying illegal or compromising content on their own video feed. Even if the recipient immediately hangs up, the scammer might capture a screenshot showing both the user’s face and the illicit content. This screenshot can then be used for blackmail or extortion.
The new video toggle provides an extra layer of protection against these tactics, allowing users to answer calls without activating their camera and potentially exposing themselves to compromising situations.
This feature isn’t just about convenience; it’s a significant step toward enhancing user privacy and security on the platform. While no official release date has been announced, Android Authority speculates that the feature will likely be rolled out to the public soon.
While the precise rollout date remains unknown, this preemptive video control represents a welcome enhancement to WhatsApp’s privacy features, offering users greater control over their video calls and protection against potential misuse.
