WhatsApp does not send any notification when someone takes a screenshot during a video call. Unlike regular chats and media messages where screenshot notifications are sent, video calls have no such alerts. Users are free to take screenshots of a WhatsApp video call without the other party being notified in any way.
Why No Screenshot Notifications for Video Calls?
There are a few reasons why WhatsApp does not have screenshot notifications for video calls:
- Privacy – Video calls are live interactions and users likely want to avoid constant notifications if the other person takes a screenshot. It would disrupt the flow of conversation.
- Temporary nature – Video calls are temporary, live streams unlike persistent chats or exchanged media. Constant screenshots do not have the same privacy implications.
- Technical limitations – Enabling screenshot notifications for video calls would require significant engineering work to continuously analyze video frames for screenshot events and generate alerts.
- User expectations – People generally do not expect screenshot notifications for video chatting apps. Even apps like FaceTime or Zoom don’t have such alerts.
Overall, the ephemeral nature of video calls, user expectations and technical challenges have led WhatsApp to not implement screenshot notifications for video calling.
When Can Video Call Screenshots be Useful?
There are some legitimate use cases for taking screenshots during a WhatsApp video call:
- Capturing memorable moments with friends or family.
- Note down instructions being explained on video call.
- Keep records of important information shared on work or educational video meetings.
- Troubleshoot technical issues by sending screenshot to support representative.
- Creating memes or sharing funny reactions.
As long as screenshots are not misused, they can serve meaningful purposes for many video call users on WhatsApp.
Risks of Video Call Screenshots
While there are valid reasons for screenshots, some risks include:
- Privacy violation – Taking and sharing screenshots without consent could breach someone’s privacy.
- Spreading misinformation – Screenshots can be edited and falsified before sharing on other platforms.
- Bullying and harassment – Capturing embarrassing moments for humiliation or blackmail.
- Copyright issues – Taking screenshots of copyrighted content playing in background.
- Distraction and discomfort – Constant screenshots could make some users self-conscious.
Users should be thoughtful about taking screenshots and ensure they do not make others uncomfortable or violate their privacy.
Best Practices for Video Call Screenshots
To avoid misuse of screenshots, users should:
- Inform others before taking screenshots especially for personal calls.
- Obtain consent before sharing screenshots of others publicly.
- Ensure no sensitive, private information is visible if taking screenshots.
- Refrain from taking screenshots to mock, embarrass or harass others.
- Delete screenshots containing nudity, violence or other sensitive content.
- Remind screenshot recipients not to share further without permission.
Following basic etiquette goes a long way in ensuring video call screenshots are not misused.
Reducing Screenshot Risks
Some measures users can take to reduce screenshot risks:
- Enable disappearing messages – Screenshtos will self-delete after a period of time.
- Set chat wallpapers – Blur or conceal background in video calls.
- Hide notification previews – Reduce visibility of sensitive details.
- Turn off read receipts – Avoid revealing if screenshots were viewed.
- Use incognito/private mode – Leave no evidence of screenshots on device.
- Be mindful of backgrounds – Ensure no private information is visible.
Enabling security features like disappearing messages and being cautious of call environments can help lower risks associated with screenshots.
What if You Want Notification of Video Call Screenshots?
Given the risks, some users understandably want screenshot notifications for video calls. Unfortunately, this is currently not a native WhatsApp feature. However, some workarounds include:
- Using third party apps – Some apps claim to detect video call screenshots.
- Enabling read receipts – See if media files were opened.
- Screen recording call – Review recording to look for screenshot freeze frames.
- Explicitly asking caller – Request they disclose any screenshots taken.
- Monitoring storage – Check phone gallery for saved screenshot files.
These methods have limitations and may not reliably alert you of screenshots. But they offer some options if you need notification.
WhatsApp’s Stance on Video Call Screenshots
WhatsApp has not officially commented on whether it will implement screenshot notifications for video calls. The platform focuses on optimizing core messaging and calling capabilities.
Adding sophisticated screenshot detection imposes big technical challenges. The feature may also conflict with WhatsApp’s emphasis on privacy and encrypted communications.
For now, WhatsApp seems unlikely to send video call screenshot alerts any time soon. The company prioritizes improving video quality, stability and group calling over such notifications.
The Future of Video Call Screenshots
Screenshots are likely to remain a low priority for WhatsApp compared to enhancing video performance and fixing bugs. Still, as video calling becomes more prevalent, user demand for more control over screenshots may grow.
WhatsApp could take certain steps like allowing hosts to disable screenshots or see screenshot counts. However, implementing real-time screenshot notifications poses engineering hurdles.
Overall, lacking screenshot notifications for video calls aligns with WhatsApp’s broader ethos around privacy and encryption. Major changes seem improbable unless users overwhelmingly want such alerts.
Key Takeaways
- WhatsApp does not send any notification when screenshots are taken during video calls.
- Technical and privacy challenges make enabling screenshot alerts difficult.
- There are legitimate uses for video call screenshots but also risks of misuse.
- Following best practices around consent and security can prevent issues.
- Third party apps provide limited workaround options if notifications are needed.
- WhatsApp is unlikely to implement native screenshot notifications anytime soon.