We manage Android Enterprise Device Owner devices with Hexnode and allow WhatsApp for work communication. The concern is not app installation, but users linking WhatsApp to another device or sharing company information outside the organization.
Is there a way in Hexnode to block the WhatsApp “Linked devices” feature specifically, or at least prevent users from using it on managed Android devices?
22 Views
Hi @noah-blake,
Hexnode cannot directly modify WhatsApp’s internal settings or hide/disable the “Linked devices” option inside the WhatsApp app.
However, on Android Enterprise – Device Owner devices, you can reduce the risk by restricting the actions required for linking and data transfer.
To prevent WhatsApp from scanning the QR code used for linking:
1. Go to Policies > Android > App Management > App Permissions.
2. Add WhatsApp.
3. Set the Camera permission to Deny.
4. Save and associate the policy with the target devices.
Alternatively, if the camera is not required on the device at all, disable it system-wide: Policies > Android > Restrictions > Basic Restrictions > Allow Device Functionality > uncheck Camera.
For additional data leakage controls, you can also configure:
– Disable Screen capture, USB file transfer, and Bluetooth.
– Use App Management > Blocklist/Allowlist to block unapproved messaging, file-sharing, or cloud storage apps.
– Use Kiosk Mode if the device should be limited only to approved apps.
If the requirement is to completely stop WhatsApp usage, then blocklisting WhatsApp would be the stricter option. If WhatsApp must remain available, denying its camera permission is the main workaround to prevent QR-based linking.
Regards,
Sienna Carter
Hexnode UEM
Don't have an account? Sign up
What's new 
