WhatsApp is by far the most widely used instant messaging app in Spain and much of the world thanks to its ease of use and the continuous improvements in privacy and security it offers. Over time, new features have been implemented that allow users to have greater control over their conversations and personal data. One of the most interesting new features is the option to restrict chats, which allows certain conversations to be completely hidden and protected through authentication systems, providing peace of mind and control that until recently was limited to other less flexible actions such as muting or archiving.
In this article, you'll find a detailed and up-to-date explanation of how to restrict a WhatsApp conversation, taking advantage of all the features this feature offers, on both Android and iOS devices. You'll also discover its advantages over traditional options, how to customize the privacy of your chats, and the differences between restricting, archiving, blocking, and other protection options within the app. If you want to protect your WhatsApp conversations like a true expert and know every step exactly, keep reading because we'll tell you everything here.
What does restricting conversations on WhatsApp mean?
The function of restrict chats on WhatsApp represents a significant evolution in privacy options. Unlike archiving or muting, restricting a chat means that That conversation disappears completely from the main screen y can only be accessed using secure authentication methods such as a fingerprint, Face ID, or a PIN code. This way, no third party can snoop or accidentally view private messages, even if they have occasional access to your device.
This function can be used both in individual chats as groups And it's designed for those who need to keep certain conversations safe from prying eyes, whether because their phone changes hands or for personal peace of mind. Plus, when you restrict a chat, the notifications change, so privacy is even greater.
Advantages of restricting conversations on WhatsApp
- Real and effective privacy: Restricted chats are hidden from view in the main chat list and can only be accessed by you with your biometric credentials or passcode.
- Full notification control: You can adjust how and when you receive notifications of new messages in restricted conversations, helping you avoid distractions and maintain discretion.
- Simple space management and accessibility: Messages are stored intact and you can access them whenever you need, without losing your history or deleting anything.
- Avoid awkward situations: If you share your phone or leave it where someone else might see it, your most sensitive conversations will be safe.
Step by Step: How to Restrict Conversations on WhatsApp (Android and iOS)
WhatsApp has sought to make this process intuitive and fast., but it's important to know each step to avoid confusion and take advantage of all the additional security options. Below, we explain in detail for both operating systems:
On Android mobiles
- Update WhatsApp: Make sure you have the latest version to access all privacy features.
- Open the app: Log into WhatsApp as usual.
- Select the chat to restrict: Long press on the conversation (you can do this on any individual or group chat).
- Click the three-dot icon: You will find it at the top right of the screen.
- Choose the 'Restrict chat' option: It will appear in the drop-down menu.
- Confirm with your fingerprint or unlock code: Depending on your device settings, you may be asked for a secure method to confirm the action.
On iOS devices (iPhone)
- Open WhatsApp and locate the conversation you want to restrict: Find the chat from your main inbox.
- Swipe left or long press on the chat: This will bring up the additional options.
- Tap 'More' and then 'Restrict chat': In iOS, many advanced features are grouped under the “More” menu.
- Tap 'Continue' and authenticate with Face ID, Touch ID, or a passcode: This action is essential to complete the protection process.
Once confirmed, the conversation will automatically move to a secure folder or restricted section located just above “Archived,” although you can hide even that folder if absolute privacy is your goal.
Extra privacy options for restricted chats
WhatsApp allows you to further customize the level of protection for your restricted conversations. These are the extras you can activate:
- Hide the restricted chats folder: If you'd rather not let anyone know you have hidden conversations, you can disable the visibility of that folder in the app's settings. This way, you'll only be able to access restricted chats from the new message notification or by entering the PIN/code you've set.
- Create a secret code (PIN): To add another layer of security, you can define a specific PIN code to access these chats. This is optional, but it adds a layer of security independent of the device's biometric parameters.
- Face ID and Fingerprint Support: On iPhone, you can use Face ID, and on Android, you can use your fingerprint, depending on your phone's security settings.
How do I activate a secret code for restricted chats?
- Open the app: Access WhatsApp normally.
- Go to the restricted chats folder: You'll find this folder in the top tray, above your archived files.
- Select the option to create a secret code: You will be given the option to set a unique PIN to access these chats.
- Enter and confirm the code: Choose a PIN that's easy for you to remember but difficult for others to remember, and confirm it.
- Activate unlocking by PIN, fingerprint or Face ID: After setting the code, you'll need to choose the unlock method each time you want to access a restricted conversation.
These methods are compatible with each other, so you can set up one and alternate it with other biometric methods for added convenience and security.
Accessing and managing restricted chats
When you restrict a chat, This disappears from the main list and is automatically moved to a new section reserved for these cases. To open a restricted chat, simply:
- Pull down the WhatsApp home screen twice (if the folder is not hidden)
- Enter the PIN code if you have set one
- Or unlock with Face ID or fingerprint according to your choice
Notifications of new messages in these restricted chats will be displayed as 'New Message,' without details or a preview, to maintain your privacy.
How to turn off the restriction and get back to normal
- Open WhatsApp and go to “Settings”: Enter, usually by pressing the three-dot icon or from the settings tab on iOS.
- Select “Privacy” and then “Restrict Chat”: Here you will find all the options for managing restricted chats.
- Choose 'Stop restricting and clear restricted chats': Doing this will return the chat to the main list, although it will be empty (previous messages will be deleted).
- Confirm with your fingerprint, Face ID or code: The action requires authentication, as does the restriction process.
WhatsApp is more than just a messaging app; with so many innovations and new features, you can have safer and more responsible conversations. Share this information so other users know how to restrict conversations on WhatsApp.