What does a crossed-out asterisk in WhatsApp mean - briefly?
A crossed-out asterisk (*) in WhatsApp indicates that the message has been forwarded multiple times. This symbol helps users identify content that may have been widely circulated and possibly altered from its original context.
What does a crossed-out asterisk in WhatsApp mean - in detail?
A crossed-out asterisk in WhatsApp is a symbol that appears next to a message when the sender has deleted it before the recipient has read it. This feature was introduced by WhatsApp to give users more control over their conversations and to allow for corrections or retractions of messages.
When a user deletes a message, the crossed-out asterisk indicates to the recipient that something was sent and then removed. The exact content of the deleted message is not visible to the recipient, ensuring privacy and preventing potential misunderstandings or conflicts that could arise from seeing a deleted message.
It's important to note that while this feature provides an additional layer of control for senders, it also serves as a reminder that once a message is sent, it can be seen by the recipient even if it is subsequently deleted. Users should always be mindful of what they share and with whom, as deleting a message does not guarantee that its contents will never be seen or remembered.
In summary, the crossed-out asterisk in WhatsApp is a visual cue that informs recipients when a sender has deleted a message before it was read. This feature promotes responsible communication and helps maintain the integrity of conversations within the app.