WhatsApp introduces 'Silence Unknown Callers' feature to reduce spam calls: Here's how it works

WhatsApp, owned by Meta, is introducing a new feature aimed at reducing unwanted calls on the platform.

This addition will enable users to activate a setting that mutes calls from potential spam or nuisance callers, which are typically numbers not found in a user's contact list. Without this setting, users can be called on WhatsApp by any other user, even if they are not in their contact list.

Meta's CEO, Mark Zuckerberg, confirmed that this incoming call silencing feature is now available for WhatsApp users.

The feature, previously noticed in development stages, is now being distributed to all users. Confirmation of this setting's availability came through tests on the most recent stable versions of WhatsApp on Android and iOS platforms.

The feature's activation ensures that users aren't interrupted by calls from unknown contacts. However, even with this setting activated, the app will still show the call in the notification area and within the app.

This means no calls from unknown individuals will be missed – the setting merely prevents the phone from ringing and causing unwanted disturbances.

This new feature was introduced after numerous users in India and other regions reported receiving spam calls from unfamiliar numbers. Complaints on Twitter indicated that these calls originated from countries like Indonesia, Vietnam, Malaysia, Kenya, and Ethiopia.

How to use WhatsApp Silence Unknown Callers

Android users who wish to activate this feature can go to the three-dot menu and select Settings > Privacy > Calls, then toggle the "Silence unknown callers" option.

For iPhone users, they can click on the gear icon on WhatsApp to open the settings menu, then select Privacy > Calls and toggle the "Silence Unknown Callers" option.

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