WhatsApp, the ubiquitous messaging platform boasting over 2 billion users worldwide, has become an indispensable tool for communication. Whether connecting with loved ones, colleagues, or even businesses, it offers a convenient and efficient way to stay in touch. However, maintaining privacy is also crucial in today’s digital world. Fortunately, WhatsApp empowers users with various privacy options, including controlling who can see their profile picture (DP). This can sometimes leave you curious about the DP of an unknown contact, but saving their number might not always be your preference.
This comprehensive guide dives deep into the various methods to check the WhatsApp DP of an unknown number without saving it in your phone’s contact list.
Methods to Check Unknown WhatsApp DP:
There are two primary methods to achieve this, each offering its own set of advantages and limitations:
Utilizing the “was. me” Link:
This method leverages a built-in WhatsApp feature that allows you to initiate a chat or view a contact’s DP directly by entering their phone number in a specific format. Here’s how it works:
Step 1: Open your preferred web browser on your smartphone.
Step 2: In the address bar, type “https://wa.me/“ followed by the country code and the unknown phone number without spaces. For example, if the number is from India, you would enter “https://wa.me/91**********”.
Step 3: Upon entering the link, you will encounter a screen displaying “was. me 91” along with the number you entered. This essentially acts as a bridge to connect with the unknown contact via WhatsApp.
Step 4: Clicking on the displayed number will prompt a confirmation to “Send via WhatsApp”. Choose this option to proceed.
Step 5: This action will automatically redirect you to the WhatsApp chat window for the unknown contact. Here, you can view their DP if their privacy settings permit. Remember, if their profile picture visibility is restricted to “contacts only”, you won’t be able to see it, but the option to send a message remains available.
Crucial Note: The “was. me” method only works if the unknown contact has an active WhatsApp account linked to their phone number.
Employing Truecaller (Optional):
While not a direct WhatsApp feature, Truecaller, a popular caller identification app, can offer an alternative route to view DPs under specific circumstances. Here’s how:
Step 1: Launch the Truecaller app on your smartphone.
Step 2: Enter the unknown phone number in the search bar.
Step 3: If the individual has a Truecaller account associated with their phone number, their profile information, including their name, might be displayed.
Step 4: Scroll down and look for the WhatsApp button within their profile.
Step 5: Tapping the button will redirect you to the WhatsApp chat window for the specific contact.
Step 6: Similar to the “was. me” method, you can now view their DP only if their privacy settings allow it. Sending messages is also possible without saving the number.
Important to Remember: Using Truecaller to view DPs relies on the user having a linked Truecaller account and not solely on their WhatsApp settings.
Additional Considerations and Important Reminders:
Respecting Privacy: It’s crucial to remember that these methods should only be used ethically and with respect for the individual’s privacy. Always consider the purpose and context before attempting to view someone’s DP without saving their contact information.
Limitations: Viewing DPs using these methods is contingent on the individual’s WhatsApp privacy settings. If they’ve chosen to restrict profile picture visibility to “contacts only,” you won’t be able to see their DP.
Alternative Solutions: In some instances, searching for the individual’s name or profile picture online might yield results, but always exercise caution and ethical considerations while exploring such avenues.
FAQs:
Q: Is it safe to use the “was. me” link?
A: As long as you access the official WhatsApp website or a trusted source for the link, it’s generally safe to use. However, be wary of clicking on suspicious links or downloading unknown applications claiming to view DPs.
Q: Can I see the DP of a blocked contact using these methods?
A: No, unfortunately, these methods won’t work for viewing the DP of someone who has blocked your number on WhatsApp.
Q: Are there any other ways to check unknown WhatsApp DPs?
A: While the methods mentioned above are the most common and reliable, there are unconventional or potentially risky approaches that we strongly discourage. These methods often involve using third-party applications or exploiting vulnerabilities, and they can pose security risks, violate individual privacy, or even be against WhatsApp’s terms of service.
