Why you might want to do this
Every voice or video call exposes the caller’s IP address unless the connection is relayed through a server. An IP address can reveal your approximate location and, in rare cases, be exploited for tracking or harassment. WhatsApp’s recent “Protect IP Address in Calls” setting solves that risk by routing one-to-one calls through WhatsApp’s own servers—similar to what group calls have always done—so the person on the other end never sees your IP.Why you might want to do this
Prerequisites
- iOS 15 or later and the most recent version of WhatsApp (update via the App Store).
- A stable data connection (Wi-Fi or mobile).
Step-by-Step Instructions
| Step | Action | What You’ll See / Do |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Open WhatsApp and go to Settings | Tap the gear icon at the bottom right of the main chat list. |
| 2 | Navigate to Privacy | This section houses all call and messaging privacy controls. |
| 3 | Scroll down and tap “Advanced.” | The Advanced panel is right beneath the “Live Location” setting. |
| 4 | Toggle on “Protect IP Address in Calls.” | The switch will turn green, confirming that all future individual calls are relayed through WhatsApp’s servers. |
| 5 | Make a test call | Call a trusted contact; they won’t see a difference, but your IP is now hidden. |
| 6 (Optional) | Leave it on permanently | The switch persists across updates; revisit Settings ▸ Privacy ▸ Advanced any time to turn it off. |
Does it hurt call quality?
Because the call is relayed, you might notice 50–100 ms of extra latency on slower networks. For most users it’s negligible, but if you rely on crystal-clear VoIP for business calls, test first.
Extra layers of protection (if you’re ultra-cautious)
- Use a reputable VPN to mask all device traffic, not just WhatsApp.
- Disable Wi-Fi calling in iOS Settings ▸ Phone to ensure cellular carriers don’t leak additional metadata.
- Review other WhatsApp Privacy toggles (“Read Receipts,” “Last Seen,” and “Profile Photo”) to shrink your digital footprint even further.
Key Takeaways
- The new relay option finally brings IP privacy to one-to-one calls—group calls were already covered.
- You can enable or disable it in seconds without third-party apps.
- Pair this setting with general privacy best practices (VPN, strong passcode, up-to-date iOS) for a robust security stack.
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