When you receive a 'Hi' message from an unknown person on WhatsApp, it's essential to handle the situation with caution. Here are some steps to respond appropriately:
Stay cautious: Remember that the person is unknown to you, so exercise caution when engaging in conversation. Avoid sharing personal information or anything that could compromise your privacy and safety.
Politely respond (optional): If you choose to respond, keep it brief and neutral. A simple "Hello" or "Hi, who is this?" can be an appropriate response without revealing too much about yourself.
Verify their identity: If the person claims to know you or has mutual acquaintances, politely ask for more information to verify their identity. Be cautious if they avoid providing specific details or try to pressure you for personal information.
Set boundaries: If the conversation starts to make you uncomfortable or the person becomes intrusive, feel free to end the conversation or block the contact. Your safety and well-being should always come first.
Avoid engaging in personal conversations: Until you are confident about the person's identity and intentions, avoid engaging in personal or sensitive topics. Stick to general topics if you choose to continue the conversation.
Block or report if necessary: If the person's messages are inappropriate, harassing, or threatening, don't hesitate to block the contact and report them to WhatsApp. Safety should be your top priority.
Keep your privacy settings updated: Regularly review your WhatsApp privacy settings to control who can contact you and view your profile information. You can limit messages to contacts only or customize your privacy settings to suit your preferences.
Remember, it's entirely acceptable not to respond at all to an unknown message if you feel uncomfortable or unsure about the sender's intentions. Prioritize your safety and trust your instincts when dealing with unknown individuals online.