June 10, 2026, 12:57 pm | Read time: 2 minutes
A message currently circulating in WhatsApp groups is causing concern among many users. It claims that an artificial intelligence from Meta can access private chats without consent, read phone numbers, and even open other conversations. Many people are forwarding the warning because they fear an invasion of their privacy. What’s really behind this?
End-to-End Encryption Remains Intact
The allegations mentioned in the chain letter are not true, according to the portal “Mimikama.” WhatsApp continues to protect messages with end-to-end encryption. This means that only the people involved in a conversation can read the content. The introduction of new AI features by Meta does not change this protection mechanism.
According to fact-checkers, the AI systems only access data when users themselves use the corresponding functions. Therefore, automatic reading of private chats does not occur.
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What’s Behind the Enhanced Chat Privacy
The chain letter also refers to “enhanced chat privacy.” This feature does exist, but its purpose is different from what the warning suggests.
The enhanced chat privacy is intended to give users more control over content within chats. This includes the export of messages and the handling of media content. The feature was not created to prevent alleged AI surveillance.
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Whether users want to activate this setting is a personal decision. It does not change the end-to-end encryption or the protection of private messages. According to the article, Meta continues to emphasize that personal conversations remain protected and that neither the company nor an AI can read them without permission.
Typical Characteristics of Chain Letters
The current case shows a pattern common in many chain letters. Such messages often use alarming statements and strong exaggerations. At the same time, they often lack credible sources for the claims made.
The goal of the authors is often to create uncertainty and prompt people to forward the message as quickly as possible. That’s why it’s worth examining such warnings more closely.
Anyone who encounters dramatic claims without sources should question the content and seek additional information if necessary. This helps prevent the spread of unfounded warnings.