How Can I Prevent Screenshots on WhatsApp?

WhatsApp has added the feature to block users from taking screenshots of profile pictures on iOS and Android devices. It delivers a black screen image accompanied by a message saying "Can't take a screenshot due to app restrictions" when someone attempts to screenshot on WhatsApp.

However, the blocking feature seems not to be available for taking screenshots of status, chats, messages, and so on. And, WhatsApp doesn't notify screenshots. If you want to protect your privacy or prevent important information being leaked, there are some possible ways to block screenshots on WhatsApp.

Way 1. Adjust Privacy to Block Screenshots of Status

• Open WhatsApp, and click the three dots on the top right corner of the screen.
• Select Settings > Privacy > Status.
• Choose who can see your status updates: My contacts, My contacts except…, Only share with….

Way 2. Enable View Once to Stop Screenshots of Chats

• Open the chat where you want to send a “view once” message.
• Type your message or upload a photo/video you want to send
• Before sending, tap 1 icon next to the Send button.
• After the message is sent, the recipient can be only able to view it once.

You May Be Interested In: How to Screen Record WhatsApp View Once >>

Way 3. Turn on Disappearing Messages to Prevent Screenshots

You can turn on disappearing messages for all chats or a specific chat.

• For all chats: Click Settings > Privacy > Default message timer > select 24 hours, 7 days or 90 days.
• For individual chats: Open a chat > click the contact name or group subject > Disappearing messages > select 24 hours, 7 days or 90 days.

Way 4. Block Someone on WhatsApp

If you want to block specific contact(s) from taking screenshots of you on WhatsApp, you can block the person(s) directly. There are two methods to block a contact.

Method 1

• Open WhatsApp and tap Options (the three dots on the top right corner).
• Go to Setting > Account > Privacy > Blocked > Add new..
• Search and select the contact you want to block. 
• Press Block.

Method 2

• Open a chat and top Options (the three dots on the top right corner).
• Select More > Block.

Actually, the above ways are not 100% working to block screenshots on WhatsApp. To protect your privacy, it is highly suggested to not share sensitive or critical information on status or during chats. Educate your contacts to not take screenshots without your permission.

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