WhatsApp link preview: Be careful! Your data could be at risk!
Discover the potential privacy risks of WhatsApp link previews and how users can protect their data.

WhatsApp link preview: Be careful! Your data could be at risk!
In today's digital world, WhatsApp is indispensable for millions of users. However, the popular messenger, which has long been used not only for chats but also for calls, brings with it a hidden danger that many may not be aware of. When users share links in their chats, a link preview is automatically created, revealing some sensitive data. Both have this Mercury as well as Giessener Anzeiger reported.
When sending a link, a “get request” is unintentionally sent to the website in question. Information such as the IP address, the WhatsApp version and the operating system of the device are transmitted. This means that even without actively visiting a site, data is exposed that cybercriminals could use to identify the general location and internet provider, potentially leaving users vulnerable. This is particularly worrying for privacy-conscious people, who should be alarmed about the extent of their data security.
Data protection measures and recommendations
It is important to emphasize that even though the messages themselves are protected by end-to-end encryption, some basic information is still shared unintentionally. Consumer advocates are critical of WhatsApp and recommend using alternative messenger services that better protect the privacy of their users. The discussion about data protection in digital communication is becoming increasingly louder, and users are required to actively pay attention to their data security.