WhatsApp is strengthening account security with expanded passkey support, stronger two-step verification and additional information about unfamiliar callers, as the Meta-owned messaging service seeks to protect users from scammers and hackers attempting to deceive them or take control of their accounts.
The platform said more than one billion people have already set up passkeys, allowing users to access WhatsApp through security methods such as fingerprints, Face ID or a device screen-lock code rather than relying on account codes or PINs.
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More than one billion users adopt passkeys
WhatsApp said passkeys provide users with another way to securely regain access to their accounts. More than one billion people are already using the feature, and users can add more than one passkey for their Android and iOS devices.
The system allows users to log back into WhatsApp using their fingerprint, Face ID or screen-lock code. The security measure is part of the platform’s broader effort to make account access more resistant to attempts by scammers or hackers to obtain users’ credentials.
WhatsApp said it continues to introduce new measures designed to keep accounts secure while maintaining end-to-end encryption for conversations.
Two-step verification gets stronger password protection
WhatsApp is also upgrading its two-step verification system to support a full password. The strengthened system will allow alphanumeric characters and special characters, expanding beyond simpler verification methods.
The changes are intended to make account takeover more difficult as the messaging platform responds to scams that attempt to trick users into surrendering access to their accounts.
The company described the measures as part of its continuing security efforts to ensure accounts remain under the control of their owners.
Android users to get more context on unknown callers
Android users are also set to receive additional information about callers who are not in their contacts. WhatsApp said the feature will provide more context about where an unfamiliar number is calling from and whether the caller shares a common group with the recipient.
The added information is intended to help users assess unfamiliar calls before engaging with them and forms part of WhatsApp’s strategy to combat scams.
“On WhatsApp, your conversations belong only to you and the people you’re talking to. 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,” WhatsApp said in a blog post.
