WhatsApp is a messaging app owned by Facebook and its main focus is on providing users with a secure and private way of communication. Recently WhatsApp has launched new features where users can communicate and keep their privacy more secured way even there is no internet connection. Last years, we  witnessed internet shutdown  in many countries or geographical region area due to their internal challenges wherever user’s are denied their ability to reach their loved ones. Human right organization are not able to reach out to the people who require help.

Currently WhatsApp has following security and privacy option:

1. End-to-end encryption: This feature encrypts all communication between users, making it unreadable by anyone other than the sender and recipient.

2. Two-step verification: This feature adds an extra layer of security by requiring users to enter a code sent to their phone number in addition to their password when logging in.

3.   Fingerprint lock: This feature allows users to lock WhatsApp with their fingerprint, preventing others from accessing it without authorization.

4.  Blocking feature: This feature allows users to block unwanted contacts or phone numbers, preventing them from sending messages or making calls.

5. Delete for everyone: This feature allows users to delete a message they’ve sent to a group or individual chat, which will then delete the message from the recipients’ chats as well.

6. Delete Account: This feature allows users to delete their account permanently.

7. Custom notification: This feature allows users to set custom notification for individual chats or groups.

8. Control who can add you to groups: This feature allows users to control who can add you to groups.

About Proxy Support

However, these privacy and security settings are insufficient due to users’ internet dependence. Now, WhatsApp has introduced additional proxy support features for its global user base. The support provides customers with extra choices for preserving access to WhatsApp even when connections are banned. End-to-end encryption will have no effect on private messages, ensuring that they remain between you and the person with whom you are conversing and are not viewable to anyone in between, including proxy servers, WhatsApp, and Meta.

Steps to setup Proxy Server

If WhatsApp is restricted in any region of the world, organizations can instal proxy servers that allow users to re-establish a connection and communicate freely and securely. You can configure a proxy using a server with available ports 80, 443, or 5222 and a domain name (or subdomain) that points to the server’s IP address to assist users in reconnecting to WhatsApp.

How to access WhatsApp by Proxy

There is no direct connection to WhatsApp. You must locate the option within some applications to connect through a proxy server put up by a volunteer or organization devoted to assisting vulnerable communities. As WhatsApp claims, there will be no changes to existing privacy and security policies.

How to find proxy to use :

Internet access was required in order to connect this. You must first choose a reliable source that has created a proxy server. Please follow the instructions below to connect proxy:

Connect to a proxy on Android

  1. Update your whatApp with most current version
  2. In the Chat tab, tap More option where there is three parallel dots in upper right corner ->setting
  3. Tap storage and Data > Proxy
  4. Tap Use Proxy
  5. Tap Set Proxy and enter the proxy address
  6. Tap Save.
  7. A check mark  will show if the connection is successful.
  8. If you are not able to send/receive messages using a proxy, means proxy may be blocked. You can long press the blocked proxy address to delete it, then enter a new proxy address to try again.

Connect to proxy on iPhone 

  • Update your WhatsApp with most current version
  • Go toWhatsApp setting
  • Tap storage and Data > Proxy
  • Tap Use Proxy
  • Enter the proxy address and  Save to connect.
  • A check mark  will show if the connection is successful.
  • If you are not able to send/receive messages using a proxy, means proxy may be blocked. You can long press the blocked proxy address to delete it, then enter a new proxy address to try again.

Please note, use of a third-party proxy will share your IP address with the proxy provider. Third-party proxies aren’t provided by WhatsApp.

Disclaimer:

The views and opinions expressed on this blog are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any other agency, organization, employer or company. Any content provided on this blog is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal, financial, tax, or other professional advice. The author will not be held liable for any errors or omissions in the information provided or any losses, injuries, or damages arising from its use. Visitors should always seek the advice of a qualified professional before making any decisions based on the information on this blog. If you believe any corrections are necessary, please contact me.

By Md Afzal Sharif

Afzal is an Adobe Multi Solution Architect with experience in designing and implementing the platform with innovative and Architect best practice. He has been in this role for several years. His areas of expertise include directing the planning and strategic development of digital technologies, designing and implementing those technologies, and providing various business solutions.