They don't need to read messages to identify spam: https://techcrunch.com/2017/02/02/how-whatsapp-is-fighting-s...
> Once reported, WhatsApp receives the most recent messages sent to you by a reported user or group, as well as information on your recent interactions with the reported user.
https://faq.whatsapp.com/general/security-and-privacy/stayin...
If I have received a message I can report that message.