WhatsApp Tests Reverse Image Search to Help Stop Misinformation

WhatsApp is rolling out a new tool to make verifying images in your chats easier and faster. Currently being tested on the Android beta version, this reverse image search feature allows you to check if an image shared in a chat is authentic or has been manipulated. This can be a game-changer in the fight against misinformation.

Here’s how it works: When you receive an image in a chat, tap on the three-dot menu in the media viewer and select “Search on web.” WhatsApp will then use Google’s reverse image search to look for similar images online. This quick check helps you find out if the image has been altered or if it appears elsewhere, which is especially helpful when misinformation spreads rapidly.

The best part? WhatsApp ensures your privacy. The app doesn’t store or access the image you search; it’s sent directly to Google for processing, so your data stays safe.

Right now, this feature is only available to Android beta testers, but it’s expected to roll out globally soon. Stay tuned—image verification could be just a tap away!

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