WhatsApp’s “single view” feature could easily be bypassed due to a bug. The function now appears to be fixed.

The “One-Time View” feature in WhatsApp, which allows users to send a picture or video once, turned out to be not so unique. In September, some developers discovered an easy way to save these files. WhatsApp has now reportedly fixed this bug, but still emphasizes that this feature should be used with some caution.

Still an isolated case

WhatsApp spokesperson Zade Alsawah told TechCrunch that the company has rolled out a fix. “We are continually adding layers of privacy protection, and this includes introducing important updates that can be viewed once online,” Alsawah said in an email. “As always, we continue to encourage users to only send View Once messages to people they know and trust, and to ensure they are using the latest version of the app.”

Bug fixed

The bug was discovered by developer Be’ery a few months ago. TechCrunch ran the same test again with the researcher, showing a different message: “Waiting for this message. Check your phone”.

Be’ery was unable to use the same technique he had used several months ago again. “We are very pleased that our research and publication have led WhatsApp to resolve the issue and protect the privacy of its users,” Be’ery told TechCrunch.