WhatsApp's 'view once' not a privacy feature; here’s why

WABetaInfo, a site that provides news and updates revolving around WhatsApp, said, "This feature is very useful, but a lot of users complained because WhatsApp didn’t implement a system to block or notify when the recipient has taken a screenshot or video capture. The reason why WhatsApp made this decision is to protect you!"

As per WABetaInfo, there are various techniques available on Android to cheat the system and bypass screenshot detection. There are many apps available that are equipped to take screenshots or video recordings silently, without notifying anyone. Some Android users even root their phones, which facilitate taking screenshots and recordings without letting anyone know.

Recipients could also use another phone or recording device to record the contents of the message. The situation in a way becomes worrisome as the sender will never know if the recipient has taken a screenshot and they might always be under the impression that their privacy was intact.

WhatsApp is encouraging people to be more careful about what they share. Even if a method of detecting screenshots is implemented, it would only give a false feeling of safety and privacy, given the ways the system can be manipulated.