WhatsApp explains how to spot potentially dangerous accounts you should block
The new Business version of the messenger app is expected to launch very soon
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WhatsApp appears to be on the verge of launching its brand new app.
The company has published a new FAQ on its site, revealing some important details about WhatsApp Business accounts.
Included on the page are tips for identifying verified Business accounts and non-verified Business accounts.
WhatsApp Business will be separate to the regular version of WhatsApp.
It’s designed to be used by companies, and will make it easier for businesses and customers to communicate on the platform.
The new FAQ page, spotted by WABetaInfo, explains the differences between Business account badges.
“You can check your contact's profile to see which type of account they're using,” it reads.
A Business account with a green checkmark badge in its profile has been verified as “an authentic brand” by WhatsApp.
A Business account with a grey checkmark badge in its profile, meanwhile, has been confirmed to be using a phone number that matches the phone number of the business it claims to be owned and operated by.
A Business account with a grey question mark badge in its profile, however, indicates that the account hasn't been confirmed or verified by WhatsApp.
You should, therefore, be wary if a Business account with a grey badge in its profile tries to contact you, even it appears to be associated with a company you know.
Fake business accounts have the potential to be even more dangerous than regular spam accounts, as it may not seem particularly unusual for a company you appear to be familiar with to ask for your personal details, such as payment information or email address. Fortunately, you can block Business accounts that look suspicious.
“We also provide you with the tools you need to control your experience with businesses. You can block business accounts and report them as spam at any time, right within the chat (open the chat > tap the Menu Button > Report spam or Block),” the FAQ continues.
“Note: Business verification and confirmation don't indicate an endorsement by WhatsApp.”
WhatsApp is, understandably, keen to clear up any potential confusion ahead of the Business app’s release.
Scammers have already tried to trick people into downloading a fake version of WhatsApp Business, which even used a convincing-looking logo.
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