WhatsApp testing feature to block screenshots of profile pictures

Meta-owned WhatsApp continues its commitment to user privacy with its latest update targeting the potential misuse of profile pictures. The change, first uncovered by the Android Police report, prevents users from directly taking screenshots of other users' profile pictures within the app itself.

This builds upon WhatsApp's existing "view once" media restrictions, which already prevent recipients from saving or screenshotting sensitive photos and videos.

How the Restriction Works

While an official announcement from Meta is pending, the WhatsApp screenshot restriction seems to be rolling out gradually.

According to the Android Police report, users may encounter one of two behaviors:

• An explicit error message stating "Can't take a screenshot due to app restrictions".
• A seemingly successful screenshot, but the profile image area will be completely blank.

Limitations and Impact

It's important to note that determined users may still find workarounds, such as using the desktop version of WhatsApp or a separate device to photograph the screen.

However, this update significantly raises the barrier for casual misuse of profile pictures. This places WhatsApp ahead of rivals like Signal and Telegram, which tout their privacy focus but lack this specific protection.

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