Snapchat updates app to stop spam messages

Auto-destruct photo sharing app Snapchat has launched an update to allow users to opt out of its "Find Friends" feature, which suffered a spam problem recently.

The photo messaging app was the target of a massive hack that resulted in the exposure of more than 4.5 million usernames and phone numbers, Cnet reports.

Numerous users began to complain about an increase in spam messages shortly after the hack, the report added.

Here's how to block those annoying messages.

From the app's camera mode, swipe from left to right, and click on the gear icon in the upper right-hand corner of the screen. On an Android device, scroll down to the Privacy settings, and set the "Receive Snaps From.." option to "My Friends" only.

For iPhone users, scroll down to the "Who Can..." settings and select "My Friends" in the "Who Can Send Me Snaps" options. This will block Snapchat messages sent from anyone, who isn't on your friends list.

To opt out of the app's "Find Friends" feature, click on the "Mobile number" option and unlink your username from your mobile number.