Whatsapp warns: How to protect your IP address from dangerous links!
Whatsapp warns: How to protect your IP address from dangerous links!
Dresden, Deutschland - On May 30, 2025, WhatsApp introduced new data protection settings to protect users before the unnoticed disclosure of their IP address when sharing links. This change comes into focus again at a time when data protection concerns and security gaps in messaging apps come into focus again and again. According to Vol.at , the IP address of the sender, which is opened when sending link lists, can be used to understand the online activities of the users. This happens because WhatsApp creates the preview directly from the device of the user and stored the IP address on the server of the linked page.
The automatic link preview shows, for example, a picture, a heading and a short text when sharing in chats. However, this function, which is practical for many users, carries considerable data protection risks. In addition to the IP address, the device type and the operating system version could also be revealed by this weak point. In comparison, platforms such as Slack or Facebook Messenger Proxy servers use IP addresses, which minimizes the risks for privacy.
safety precautions in WhatsApp
The technology portal Kosmo has pointed out this data protection problem and recommended that the link preview in the WhatsApp settings deactivate. To do this, users simply have to go to "Settings" → "Data Protection", then select "Extended Settings" and activate the "Deactivate" Link preview option. This function is currently available in the beta versions for iOS (24.7.10.76) and Android (2.24.8.11), but should also be made accessible to all users in future updates.
Another problem connected to the link preview is the fact that cybercriminals may find out through targeted links which device is connected to an impression account or a similar platform. This is a similarity to a weakness that was already discussed at Apple's iMessage in 2016 when the IP address and device information could also be disclosed there.
data protection in the digital age
In today's digital world, messaging apps such as WhatsApp and Telegram are central means of communication. Data protection is crucial to protect personal information. According to a guidelines of the external data protection officer from Dresden , data security also includes the responsible handling of user data and the transparency of the guidelines of the respective provider. While WhatsApp has end-to-end encryption, there are always concerns about data transfer to Meta.users are encouraged to regularly check their data protection settings and use secure passwords. Alternatives such as signal known for their transparent security protocols offer data protection -friendly options that can protect users from possible risks.
Overall, this development shows that one should be aware of the risks associated with the use of messaging apps. The decision for a specific app should therefore not only be based on functionality, but also on the offered security features and data protection guidelines.
| Details | |
|---|---|
| Ort | Dresden, Deutschland |
| Quellen | |
Kommentare (0)