WhatsApp’s proxy feature helps users bypass internet shutdowns

WhatsApp announced on Thursday that it was bringing proxy support to the popular encrypted messaging service. Users around the world can continue to use WhatsApp even if their connection to the company’s servers is blocked or dropped. Using a proxy allows users to connect to WhatsApp through servers set up by volunteers and organizations around the world dedicated to helping people communicate freely.

Corresponding Whatsappthe connection via proxy maintains the same level of privacy and security as the app, and personal messages are still protected by end-to-end encryption.

The news comes after Iran’s local government blocked access to WhatsApp and Instagram in 2022 after protesters used both platforms to spread information about human rights abuses in the country. WhatsApp says it is working to ensure that “these Internet Shutdowns never happens.”

“Our wish for 2023 is that these internet shutdowns never happen,” WhatsApp wrote in a blog entry. “Disruptions like the ones we’ve been witnessing in Iran for months are denying people’s human rights and preventing people from receiving urgent assistance. However, should these shutdowns continue, we hope this solution will help people wherever secure and reliable communications are needed.”

WhatsApp also provided one Manual for users interested in creating their own proxy server for friends and family. Users can find the new option by going to the storage and date settings in WhatsApp. Proxy server support is now being introduced iPhone and Android Users, so make sure you have the latest version of WhatsApp installed. The company claims that messages are not visible to anyone in the middle, including proxy servers, WhatsApp and the parent company Meta.

For all users who have the latest version of the app installed, the new option is available in the settings menu. According to WhatsApp, if you have internet access, you can search social media or search engines for reliable sources that have set up a proxy. To connect to a proxy, you can go to WhatsApp settings and tap ​storage and data and then select proxy. Then tap use proxyenter the proxy address and select Save on computer to connect to the service.

A tick will appear if the connection is successful. If you still cannot send or receive WhatsApp messages while using a proxy, the proxy may have been blocked. In this scenario, you can try again with a different proxy address. WhatsApp says that using a third-party proxy gives the user’s IP address to the proxy provider.