WhatsApp testing self-destructing messages for individual accounts

WhatsApp has been working on self-destructing messages for quite some time, as reported earlier in November. The feature was tested out last year but was restricted only to group chats. According to a new report from WABetaInfo, the latest beta version of WhatsApp introduces self-destructing messages for individual accounts.

Self-destructing messages are in fact quite popular among instant messaging apps. Snapchat, Telegram and Instagram all have the feature and WhatsApp is the only major messaging platform to shy away from it so far.

Not for long though since features tested in beta versions usually make it to the final builds. However, the exact timeline of rollout or its final form is still unclear. WhatsApp has been known to change around features after testing them out on the beta version.

For now, users of the beta version can find the feature Settings menu of each chat. Tap on Delete Messages and choose how long you want the message to stay before self-destructing. Options range from one hour to one day, one week, one month to one year.

Previously, self-destructing messages were only supported in group chats and had a rudimentary make-up to it. You could only choose to keep messages for five seconds or an hour with no in-between.

Are self-destructing messages good for privacy?

Messages that get deleted by themselves have been quite popular among privacy activists who use the feature to share sensitive info that can be prevented from getting into the wrong hands because of timely removal. In that regard, self-destructing messages could help the platform get back a lot of privacy-sensitive users who had migrated off to more secure apps.

Having said that, WhatsApp has also become a prime source of fake news and a platform for sharing communally disruptive content, especially in India. Miscreants can also use the feature to spread false information which may later get automatically deleted before falling into the hands of authorities.

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