WhatsApp : Admin able to delete abusive messages sent by anyone in a group chat.

WhatsApp is introducing a new tool that enables admins to delete inappropriate or abusive messages received by any group chat participant. Deleted messages are also removed for all users. 

WABetaInfo reports that the Meta-owned messaging platform is rolling out the new feature for group administrators. According to the article, it is presently only available in the beta version, albeit not all beta testers may be able to see it at this time. When an admin deletes a message, it is deleted from the group chat for everyone. Additionally, deleted messages will be replaced with a box indicating that an administrator removed the content. 

The new feature solves one of the app’s long standing flaws by allowing admins the ability to exert control over a small group of individuals who share a common interest. Currently, WhatsApp group admins have limited capabilities, such as the ability to expel users and choose group members. However, they have no ability to remove abusive messages.

Admin now simply needs to long-press a message and then tap the delete option to delete it. Before the operation is carried out, a dialogue box will appear to confirm that you are deleting the message as an administrator. However, the new functionality is not completely new, and WhatsApp is simply catching up to the finest messaging apps. For instance, Telegram has long allowed group administrators to remove messages submitted by anyone.

Although the feature is being rolled out to WhatsApp’s beta version, it should be noted that not all group administrators will likely have access to it just yet. The rollout, according to WABetaInfo, is “extremely slow.”  The most recent adjustment strengthens WhatsApp’s current limitations on intrusive group members.