WhatsApp denies claim that background colors reveal relationship status

A false claim circulating on social media said that the background colors shown for WhatsApp accounts without profile photos reveal a user’s relationship status. The posts alleged that green means the person has not saved your number, blue means you have been blocked, and red means you have little contact. WhatsApp said the colors assigned automatically to accounts without profile photos are used only for visual distinction. The company said they have no connection to a user’s relationship status, blocking settings or number of messages. Experts said the spread of such misinformation is fueled by users’ desire to find hidden signs in digital platforms.