What Documents You Shouldn't Scan or Send via WhatsApp

WhatsApp has just launched a feature that lets you scan documents directly from the app, without having to install extra apps that only take up space on your phone. Super convenient, right?

But be careful: even though the tool is very useful, not all documents should go through it. Some papers contain sensitive information that, if it falls into the wrong hands, could get you into serious trouble.

At TecnetOne, we're here to tell you which documents you shouldn't scan with WhatsApp and how to protect your personal information.

Which Documents Shouldn't You Scan with WhatsApp (and Why)?

Even though WhatsApp’s new scanner allows you to digitize almost any document without restrictions, it’s important to know when it’s appropriate to use it—and when it’s not. This tool is designed to make sending files from your phone easier, but sharing sensitive information this way isn’t always a good idea, no matter how convenient it may seem.

While you can scan personal, banking, or even legal documents, you should do so with extreme caution and security measures, especially if they contain data that could be used to steal your identity or commit fraud.

Personal Documents

These include any file with your basic personal information, such as:

1. INE or voter ID card

2. Birth certificate

3. CURP or RFC

4. Passport

5. Military ID

6. Medical records or certificates

These documents can easily be used to impersonate you or carry out procedures in your name.

Banking or Financial Documents

These include:

1. Bank statements

2. Credit or debit cards (front or back photos)

3. Purchase receipts

4. Payment confirmations

5. Proof of income

6. Loan agreements

All of this information could be used to commit fraud or drain your accounts if it gets leaked.

Read more: The Human Factor: The Greatest Gap in Cybersecurity

Legal Documents

These include:

1. Lawsuits or legal complaints

2. Legal motions or official notices

3. Updates on judicial or administrative proceedings

Sharing this type of document without protection can affect legal processes or put your privacy at risk.

Academic and Work-Related Documents

You should also be cautious with:

1. Report cards or grade transcripts

2. Scholarship or payment certificates

3. Professional licenses

4. School or work IDs

5. Academic records

Although they may seem harmless, these documents can be used to create fake profiles or deceive third parties.

Read more: WhatsApp with Ads: How could it affect your privacy?

Why Should You Be Careful When Sending Scanned Documents via WhatsApp?

While WhatsApp has made it much easier to send documents thanks to its built-in scanning feature, convenience doesn’t always mean total safety. One of the main reasons to be cautious when sharing files through this platform is cybersecurity.

Nowadays, many of the most common digital scams are linked to the misuse of personal information that people share (sometimes without thinking) through messaging apps like WhatsApp. The risks include:

1. Identity theft, using your data to carry out procedures in your name.

2. Fake application requests using your documents, which can affect both you and others.

3. Threats or extortion via messages or calls, after gaining access to your information.

Over the past year, incidents related to identity theft and WhatsApp account hacks have risen alarmingly—showing just how exposed we are when we don't protect our personal data.

How to Protect Your Scanned Documents on WhatsApp

At TecnetOne, we want you to always stay safe when using your favorite devices and apps. We know tools like WhatsApp's scanner can be incredibly useful, but they also come with risks if not used carefully.

Here are some practical tips to help you protect your personal information when sending documents through the platform:

1. Only share with trusted contacts: Before sending a document, make sure you truly know and trust the person receiving it. If possible, use more secure channels like encrypted email or official platforms.

2. Use disappearing messages: Enable WhatsApp’s disappearing messages feature so files are automatically deleted after a set period. This reduces the chance of them staying in the chat longer than necessary.

3. Back up copies in secure locations: Before sharing any document, save a copy in your email or a secure app on your phone. That way, you can safely delete it from the chat without worrying about losing the information.

4. Delete what you no longer need: Once you've sent (or received) the document and no longer need it, delete it from the chat, gallery, and your phone’s internal storage. This helps prevent data leaks in case of theft or loss.

At TecnetOne, we believe technology should make your life easier—without putting your safety at risk. That’s why we encourage you to follow these best practices whenever you use digital tools to share sensitive information. Remember: your information is valuable—treat it that way.