Technology
WhatsApp now lets you automatically self destruct ALL new texts after one day
WHATSAPP is letting you set self-destruction timers for ALL of your chats.
That means all texts will automatically delete after a chosen period of time.
WhatsAppWhatsApp is adding automatic message deletion[/caption]
The new update is aimed at boosting your privacy – by destroying old WhatsApp messages.
You can set Disappearing Messages to automatically turn on for all new chats – without affecting existing conversations.
And two new durations have been added for Disappearing Messages, 24 hours and 90 days.
So now you can choose from four options in total: 24 hours, 7 days, 90 days or Off.
“Deciding how long a message lasts should be in your hands,” said WhatsApp.
“We’ve become accustomed to leaving a digital copy of just about everything we type without even thinking about it.
Most read in News Tech
“It’s become the equivalent of a note taker following us around making a permanent record of everything we’ve said.
“This is why we introduce disappearing messages last year, and more recently a way for photos and videos to immediately disappear after being viewed once.”
WhatsApp’s new feature begins rolling out today.
So if you don’t see it yet, try updating your app or simply wait a few days.
Enabling Disappearing Messages automatically works for all one-on-one chats.
And either party in the chat can choose the setting.
It won’t change or delete any of your existing chats, so don’t worry about losing old info.
A message will also be displayed warning people in the conversation that messages will be deleted.
This notification will reveal how long you have to read the texts before they vanish forever.
Don’t trust it
Bear in mind that this system isn’t perfect.
Someone could still screenshot or copy your texts to keep a record of them.
So if you really want to keep something off the internet, consider not posting it – unless you’re messaging someone you absolutely trust.
All of the Disappearing Messages remain end-to-end encrypted, just like regular WhatsApp missives.
“Living apart from family and friends for over a year has made it clearer than ever that just because we can’t physically talk in person, it doesn’t mean we should have to sacrifice the privacy of our personal connections,” said WhatsApp.
“We believe Disappearing Messages along with end-to-end encryption are two crucial features that define what it means to be a private messaging service today.
“And bring us one step closer to the feeling of an in-person conversation.”
To use the feature, update your WhatsApp app and then go into Privacy Settings.
You’ll find the new feature under Default Message Timer.
Read all the latest Phones & Gadgets newsKeep up-to-date on Apple storiesGet the latest on Facebook, WhatsApp and Instagram
Best Phone and Gadget tips and hacks
Looking for tips and hacks for your phone? Want to find those secret features within social media apps? We have you covered…
How to get your deleted Instagram photos back
How to track someone on Google Maps
How can I increase my Snapchat score?
How can I change my Facebook password?
How can I do a duet on TikTok?
Here’s how to see if your Gmail has been hacked
How can I change my Amazon Alexa voice in seconds?
What is dating app Bumble?
How can I test my broadband internet speed?
Here’s how to find your Sky TV remote in SECONDS
In other news, Google Chrome users have been urged to delete their browser.
Facebook recently rebranded to Meta.
Check out the best iPhone 13 deals in October 2021.
And take a look at your hidden Facebook rejection folder.
We pay for your stories! Do you have a story for The Sun Online Tech & Science team? Email us at tech@the-sun.co.uk
