Meta's WhatsApp is rolling out three significant security updates: stronger password-based two-step verification, improved context for unknown calls on Android, and the ability to use multiple passkeys for cross-device biometric access, all aimed at enhancing account security and preventing unauthorized access.

Meta's WhatsApp is rolling out three significant security updates: stronger password-based two-step verification, improved context for unknown calls on Android, and the ability to use multiple passkeys for cross-device biometric access, all aimed at enhancing account security and preventing unauthorized access.

Meta's WhatsApp is rolling out three significant security updates: stronger password-based two-step verification, improved context for unknown calls on Android, and the ability to use multiple passkeys for cross-device biometric access, all aimed at enhancing account security and preventing unauthorized access.

Meta announced that WhatsApp is adding three new features. The updates are aimed at increasing account security and making it harder for a third person to access someone else’s account. The updates include stronger two-step verification, additional context for calls from unknown numbers and the ability to use different passkeys for multiple devices.

Stronger two-step verification

Meta has updated the the two-step verification process, from a PIN to a full password. While logging into a new device, the two-step verification used to consist of an SMS verification code sent to the registered phone number and an extra 6-digit PIN, or a unique code entered to confirm an account.

However, WhatsApp has introduced a new password feature instead of the PIN. This password can include letters, numbers and special characters, making the code significantly harder to guess for an unknown person attempting to log in to the account.

This feature can be activated by navigating to settings and turning on the two-step verification under the account section. Enter the password and add an email address, in case it needs to be reset.

More context for unknown calls

For Android users, WhatsApp will show additional information when users receive calls from unknown numbers. Users can now see which country the caller is from, along with the number of groups they have in common with the caller.

The feature will be enabled automatically by WhatsApp in its latest version. If it has not been enabled, update the app on the Google Play Store. However, the feature is exclusively for Android users.

Multiple passkeys

A user can now save more than one passkey to a single account to use biometrics like Face ID or fingerprints across different operating systems. The feature is helpful for users who switch between Android and iOS devices.

Users can manage their passkeys in the passkey section after navigating to accounts under settings.

WhatsApp is in the process of rolling out these new features, and users may not be able to access them at the same time. If any of the features are not immediately available, users should keep the app updated and keep checking to see if they are enabled. 

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