What happens if you click on a link in WhatsApp - briefly?
When you click on a link in WhatsApp, the app will open the webpage or file associated with that link within the app itself. This is designed to provide a seamless user experience without leaving the messaging platform.
What happens if you click on a link in WhatsApp - in detail?
When you click on a link in WhatsApp, several processes occur in the background to ensure your safety and deliver the content seamlessly. Here's a detailed breakdown of what happens:
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Link Preview Generation: WhatsApp automatically generates a preview of the linked website. This process involves fetching the meta tags from the webpage, such as the title, description, and image. The link preview helps users understand the context and legitimacy of the link before they decide to open it.
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Security Checks: Before you can click through to the actual webpage, WhatsApp performs various security checks. These include:
- Link Verification: WhatsApp verifies that the domain in the link is legitimate and hasn't been reported as malicious or involved in phishing activities.
- Content Filtering: WhatsApp uses machine learning algorithms to scan the content of the webpage for any potential threats, such as malware or harmful software.
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User Interaction: After passing the security checks, you'll see a preview of the website. At this point, you can choose to:
- Open the Link: By tapping on the link preview, you'll be directed to the webpage within WhatsApp's in-app browser. This browser is designed to provide a secure browsing experience.
- Copy the Link: You can copy the link to your clipboard and open it later in your preferred browser.
- Report the Link: If you suspect the link is suspicious, you can report it to WhatsApp for further investigation.
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In-App Browsing Experience: When you open the link within WhatsApp's in-app browser, several things happen:
- Data Encryption: All data exchanged between your device and the website is encrypted using HTTPS to protect your privacy and security.
- Tracking Protection: WhatsApp's browser has built-in tracking protection to prevent websites from collecting your personal information without your consent.
- Safe Browsing: The in-app browser utilizes Google's Safe Browsing technology to warn you if a site is dangerous or deceptive.
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Post-Click Actions: After visiting the website, you can:
In summary, clicking on a link in WhatsApp triggers a series of security checks and user interactions designed to protect your privacy and ensure a safe browsing experience within the app.