Users worldwide can now continue to use the instant messaging service from Meta, WhatsApp, even if the internet is off in their country, the company announced.
This happened at the same time that WhatsApp introduced proxy support, allowing users to connect to the service through servers run by volunteers and groups working to promote free speech around the world.
In light of Iran’s internet blackout, WhatsApp said in a blog post that it had developed a way to help those who are being prevented from contacting loved ones due to internet blackouts.
Providing users with the assurance that their privacy is protected when using proxy servers, WhatsApp, said,“Connecting via proxy maintains the high level of privacy and security that WhatsApp provides. Your messages will still be protected by end-to-end encryption — ensuring they stay between you and the person you’re communicating with and are not visible to anyone in between, not the proxy servers, WhatsApp, or Meta.
“Our wish for 2023 is that these internet shutdowns never occur. Disruptions, like we’ve seen in Iran for months on end, deny people’s human rights and cut people off from receiving urgent help. Though in case these shutdowns continue, we hope this solution helps people wherever there is a need for secure and reliable communication.”
Whenever there is an internet outage, Android and iPhone users will follow the steps below to connect to proxy servers, according to WhatsApp:
For Android users
Make sure you are using the most current version of WhatsApp.
In the Chats tab, tap More options > Settings.
Tap Storage and Data > Proxy.
Tap Use Proxy.
Tap Set Proxy and enter the proxy address.
Tap Save.
A check mark will show if the connection is successful.
If you are still unable to send or receive WhatsApp messages using a proxy, that proxy may have been blocked.
You can long-press the blocked proxy address to delete it, then enter a new proxy address to try again.
For iPhone users
Make sure you are using the most current version of WhatsApp.
Go to WhatsApp Settings.
Tap Storage and Data > Proxy.
Tap Use Proxy.
Enter the proxy address and tap
Save to connect.
A check mark will show if the connection is successful.
If you are still unable to send or receive WhatsApp messages using a proxy, that proxy may have been blocked.
Try again using a different proxy address.
Note: Use of a third-party proxy will share your IP address with the proxy provider. Third-party proxies are not provided by WhatsApp.