WhatsApp’s new proxy server feature is set to help people maintain access to the app when a local internet service provider blocks them. It’s aimed at helping citizens living in countries with restricted online freedoms continue communication.
The messaging app now offers a way for users to connect to the platform via servers set up by volunteers and organizations. The company said it will provide detailed instructions on how to find a proxy server that supports ports 80, 443, or 5222.
Privacy
WhatsApp has launched a new feature that allows people to chat even when the internet is shut down or blocked. The update is aimed at users in countries where internet restrictions prevent them from communicating with friends and family.
It enables them to connect through proxy servers. A proxy server is a gateway between you and the internet, which helps you avoid censorship and restrictions.
To use the feature, you must head to WhatsApp’s settings and select ‘Use Proxy’. Next, enter the proxy address of a server you trust.
This feature is a great way to keep in touch with loved ones even when the internet is not available. It’s also a good way to maintain privacy, as your messages will still be end-to-end encrypted.
But you should be aware that if you use third-party proxies, your IP address will be visible to the proxy provider. This is why it’s important only to choose a proxy address that you can trust.
Security
The world’s most popular messaging app WhatsApp has just added proxy server support, meaning you can still access the platform even if internet service providers block you. The company says the new feature is designed to help people stay connected, particularly in regions where repressive governments have shut down access to social media.
The company also notes that the messages and data you exchange with other users on WhatsApp will remain end-to-end encrypted when using a proxy server. However, users should still be aware that their personal information will be shared with the proxy servers they choose to use.
The Meta-owned firm rolled out the feature with the situation in Iran in mind. Still, it’s potentially useful for those in more repressive countries who may have access to the internet restricted by their government. As it’s a global feature, users can also take advantage of it during blackouts and other network disruptions. They can simply search for a proxy address through trusted sources or social media and enter it into the WhatsApp settings.
Reliability
WhatsApp’s new proxy server feature has been introduced to allow users to connect with friends and family in regions where governing authorities have blocked the service. It works by connecting through servers that volunteers and organizations set up, and it is accessible to everyone using the app.
Meta Platforms Inc’s WhatsApp announced the update on Thursday. It says the feature will help people stay online even if they’re being cut off from internet services by governments like Iran.
In a blog post, the company says it launched the feature “to support the needs of our 2.4 billion users in countries that have faced Internet shutdowns”. These blocks “deny people their human rights and stop them from getting urgent help,” WhatsApp said in the announcement.
WhatsApp claims the use of a third-party proxy won’t affect its end-to-end encryption features that safeguard messages and data. However, the messaging service warns users that third-party proxies will share their IP address with the proxy provider.
Cost
WhatsApp has recently introduced a new feature that allows users to stay connected even when internet connections are disrupted or blocked. The feature works by allowing people to connect to the app through proxy servers set up by volunteers and organizations.
Using this feature, people will be able to chat with loved ones, friends, and even emergency responder services. This new feature aims to protect people against censorship and internet shutdowns, which is especially common in countries like Iran.
The company explained that it rolled out the proxy support for the sake of its users who may be affected by government restrictions. It noted that the feature is available worldwide.
To access the feature, users can go to Settings > Storage and Data > Proxy and then enter the proxy address they wish to use. Once they have entered it, they can tap save.
