07/12/2026
Assalamu Alaikum,
WhatsApp groups have become an easy target for scammers looking to collect members' phone numbers. Recent WhatsApp updates let us build communities that keep numbers private from other members almost entirely. Note that admins can still view everyone's number, so limiting who has admin access is key to protecting the group.
1. Make the community
Communities tab → New community. WhatsApp creates an Announcement group everyone shares.
2. Check numbers are hidden
Phone number privacy is on by default — open the community info tab and confirm it's on. It hides members' numbers from each other. Note: admins can always see every member's number, and the setting can be toggled off per community.
3. Lock it to admins
Open each group → Group permissions → set Send messages, Edit group settings, and Add members to Only admins.
4. Already have a group? Move it in
Add your existing group to the community as Hidden, then unlink it. Everyone stays in — no one sees the list. (Optional.)
5. Share the link freely
Post the invite link or QR code anywhere. The room is locked, so newcomers can't see members or post — no approvals needed.
Visit the page for more detailed instructions:
https://www.asmatec.com/whatsapp-security?v=2
Hide members' numbers and lock posting to admins only, so you can share the join link freely and keep scammers out. Free step-by-step guide from AsmaTec.