WhatsApp is starting to offer a number of new security features to its users. These features are proof that serious steps have been taken to protect users against SIM theft and other social engineering attacks that can compromise your account.
Very soon, when you download WhatsApp on a new device and you want to move your account to that phone, you may be asked to use your old device to confirm. A WhatsApp spokesperson says this feature, which they call Account Protect, will only activate if a suspicious sign-up attempt is detected. If you don’t have access to your old device, you will be able to ask the company to send you a second “one time password”.
Even if you don’t intend to switch devices anytime soon, new features will make your WhatsApp account more secure. The company says they will help protect your account from malware and better protect you when your WhatsApp is compromised.
WhatsApp also makes it easy for users to verify that their connection with someone is encrypted. Currently, verifying your connection with someone involves scanning a QR code or comparing a 60-digit number, which you can find by tapping the Encryption tab at the bottom of a person’s information page. Soon, tapping the tab will automatically verify whether your connection is secure or not.
New features will be rolled out to all WhatsApp users in the coming months. Meanwhile, if you want to do your best to keep your account secure, WhatsApp parent company Meta recommends enabling two-factor authentication and encrypted backups.
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