What Is WhatsApp’s ‘Spy Mode’?
WhatsApp’s ‘Spy Mode’ is a series of privacy settings designed to help users stay under the radar while using the app. These features allow you to hide your online status, last seen, and read receipts. Additionally, users can manage who can view their status updates.
This mode is ideal for those who want to browse WhatsApp without others knowing when they’re online or whether they’ve read messages.
How to Hide Read Receipts on WhatsApp
Follow these steps to turn off read receipts:
- Open WhatsApp on your device.
- Tap the three-dot icon in the top-right corner to access the menu.
- Select ‘Settings’, then ‘Privacy’.
- Find ‘Read Receipts’ and disable the toggle.
Note: This setting only affects individual chats; read receipts remain active in group chats.
How to Remove Last Seen and Online Status
To hide your last seen and online status, follow these instructions:
- Open WhatsApp and access the menu by tapping the three-dot icon.
- Go to ‘Settings’ → ‘Privacy’ → ‘Last Seen & Online’.
- Under ‘Who can see my last seen’, select ‘Nobody’ or choose specific contacts.
- Set ‘Who can see when I’m online’ to ‘Same as last seen’.
These settings provide more control over your visibility within the app, allowing you to stay connected discreetly.
How to Restrict a Chat on WhatsApp
Restricting a chat helps improve privacy without blocking or deleting contacts. This feature:
- Archives the chat in a separate folder.
- Disables notifications from that chat.
- Hides your online status when you open the conversation.
This can be useful for:
- Avoiding distractions from constant messages.
- Keeping private conversations out of view on the main screen.
- Managing active group chats without frequent alerts.
Messages from restricted chats still arrive, but you won’t be notified unless you open the chat manually.
Enable Temporary Messages for Added Privacy
Temporary messages automatically delete after a set time, helping users maintain cleaner conversations and reduce message storage. You can set messages to disappear after 24 hours, 7 days, or 90 days in both individual and group chats.
Additional Privacy Features on WhatsApp
WhatsApp has introduced several new features to enhance user control and privacy:
🗣️ Voice Message Transcription
This feature converts voice notes into text, allowing users to read messages instead of listening. It’s helpful in noisy environments or situations where discretion is needed. The transcription supports multiple languages, including English, Spanish, and Portuguese.
💾 Message Drafts
Users can now save unfinished messages as drafts, enabling them to edit and review before sending. Drafts remain in the chat until finalised.
❤️ Reactions and Mentions in Status Updates
Users can react quickly to status updates and mention specific contacts to enhance engagement and visibility within the app.