WhatsApp is rolling out a free upgrade that introduces three new security features for its billions of users. The Meta-owned chat platform announced the latest changes, designed to boost account safety and security.
“On WhatsApp, your conversations belong only to you and the people you're talking to,” the company said. “It’s why we built end-to-end encryption by default, and it’s why we continue adding new ways to keep your account secure and in your hands.”
Multiple Passkeys and Stronger Two-Step Verification
The update changes WhatsApp’s passkey feature, which uses a fingerprint, Face ID, or screen lock code to protect accounts. Users on both Apple and Android devices can now add multiple passkeys to their accounts, rather than being restricted to just one. This makes chats more secure, as they cannot be read until verification has taken place. To set it up, users can go to Settings > Account > Passkeys.
WhatsApp is also strengthening its two-step verification system. Previously reliant on a six-digit PIN, users can now switch to a full password. This allows for a longer, alphanumeric password with special characters, making it harder for scammers to guess.
“Two-step verification is an extra protection layer that helps prevent someone from taking over your account, even if they get hold of your one-time passcode,” WhatsApp said. “Until now it was a six-digit PIN, we’ve now upgraded it to a full password: longer, alphanumeric, and even with special ch@racters to make it harder to guess.”
More Context for Unknown Calls
Android users will now receive more information when an unknown number calls them on WhatsApp. The app will provide extra context, including whether the number is from another country and whether it is already part of any groups the user shares. This could help users decide whether to answer an unfamiliar call, particularly as scammers often rely on creating a sense of urgency.
“When you get a call from someone not saved in your contacts, a little context can help you decide whether to pick up,” WhatsApp said. “Scammers rely on urgency – now you can take a beat with some more info before answering.”
All three upgrades are rolling out now, so users should check WhatsApp to see if the new security features have reached their accounts.
