How can you disable read receipts in WhatsApp?

Disabling read receipts (the blue check marks that indicate when a message has been read) in WhatsApp affects both your ability to see when others have read your messages and others' ability to see when you have read their messages. Here's how you can disable read receipts in WhatsApp:

### For Android:

1. **Open WhatsApp**: Launch WhatsApp on your Android device.

2. **Go to Settings**: Tap on the three vertical dots in the top right corner to open the menu. Select "Settings" from the dropdown.

3. **Navigate to Account**: Tap on "Account" from the list of options.

4. **Privacy Settings**: Select "Privacy".

5. **Disable Read Receipts**: Scroll down and find the option labeled "Read receipts". Uncheck this option. This will disable read receipts so others won't see when you've read their messages.

### For iPhone (iOS):

1. **Open WhatsApp**: Launch WhatsApp on your iPhone.

2. **Go to Settings**: Tap on "Settings" at the bottom right corner of the screen.

3. **Navigate to Account**: Tap on "Account".

4. **Privacy Settings**: Tap on "Privacy".

5. **Disable Read Receipts**: Toggle off the option for "Read Receipts". This will disable read receipts so others won't see when you've read their messages.

### Considerations:

- **Impact on Group Chats**: Disabling read receipts affects all chats, including group chats. You won't be able to see read receipts for messages you send, and others won't see read receipts for messages they send you.

- **Sending Read Receipts**: Even if you disable read receipts, you'll still be able to see when others are typing (indicating they're responding to your message) and when messages have been delivered to you (single gray check mark).

- **Privacy and Communication**: Disabling read receipts can be useful for maintaining privacy and avoiding immediate responses without feeling pressured.

By following these steps, you can disable read receipts in WhatsApp on both Android and iOS devices, allowing you to control when and how your read status is displayed to others.