How to prohibit SMS in WhatsApp?

How to prohibit SMS in WhatsApp - briefly?

To prohibit SMS in WhatsApp, you can disable the app's ability to send and receive SMS by going into your phone's settings and revoking WhatsApp's permission to use SMS services. This action will prevent WhatsApp from using your device's SMS functionality.

How to prohibit SMS in WhatsApp - in detail?

To prohibit SMS functionality within the WhatsApp application, you need to follow a series of detailed steps that effectively disable this feature. It's important to note that these methods are intended for personal use and should not be employed to circumvent legal or safety measures. Here is a comprehensive guide on how to achieve this:

For Android Devices:

  1. Disable SMS Permissions:

    • Open WhatsApp on your device.
    • Navigate to the Settings menu by tapping the three dots in the upper right corner and selecting Settings.
    • Go to Account > Privacy. Here, you can manage various privacy settings, but SMS permissions are not directly adjustable here.
    • To completely disable SMS permissions, go to your phone's Settings app.
    • Tap on Apps & Notifications (or similar depending on your device).
    • Find and tap on WhatsApp in the list of installed apps.
    • Go to Permissions.
    • Locate and disable SMS permissions. This will prevent WhatsApp from accessing your SMS functionality.
  2. Disable Chat Backup:

    • While in the WhatsApp settings, go to Chats > Chat Backup.
    • Disable the Backup to Google Drive option if it is enabled. This prevents WhatsApp from backing up your messages, which can sometimes include SMS data.

For iOS Devices:

  1. Disable SMS Permissions:

    • Open the Settings app on your iPhone.
    • Scroll down and tap on WhatsApp.
    • Toggle off the SMS permission under the Allow WhatsApp to Access section. This will restrict WhatsApp from accessing your SMS messages.
  2. Disable Chat Backup:

    • Open WhatsApp and go to Settings by tapping on the Settings icon in the bottom right corner.
    • Navigate to Chats > Chat Backup.
    • Ensure that the Auto Backup option is turned off. This prevents your messages from being backed up, which can sometimes include SMS data.

Additional Measures:

  • Use a Different Messaging App: If you find the above methods insufficient or too complex, consider using an alternative messaging app that does not require SMS permissions.
  • Monitor Updates: WhatsApp frequently updates its features and settings. Keep an eye on any changes that might re-enable SMS functionality, and adjust your settings accordingly.

By following these steps, you can effectively prohibit the use of SMS within WhatsApp, ensuring that your messaging app does not have access to your text messages.