WhatsApp believes that its users’ messages should be private and secure, just like an in-person conversation. The company has implemented default end-to-end encryption as the foundation of its security and is continuously developing new features to provide extra layers of privacy and more control over messages.
WhatsApp is adding additional security features in the coming months to further protect users’ accounts. One such feature is Account Protect, which is designed to double-check that it is actually the account owner who is switching to a new device. This extra security check will notify users of any unauthorized attempts to move their accounts to another device.
Mobile device malware is a significant threat to people’s privacy and security, as it can take advantage of their phones without their consent and use their WhatsApp to send unwanted messages. To help prevent this, WhatsApp has added checks to authenticate accounts and better protect users if their devices are compromised. This feature, called Device Verification, does not require any action from the user.
To ensure that users are chatting with the intended recipient, WhatsApp’s most security-conscious users have been able to use the security code verification feature manually. To make this process more accessible to everyone, WhatsApp is introducing Automatic Security Codes based on a process called “Key Transparency.” Users can click on the encryption tab to verify that they have a secure connection.
WhatsApp hopes that these new security features will enhance users’ privacy and provide increased security. While there are many ways to make security easy for everyone, only two features can be turned on by the user: two-step verification and the use of end-to-end encrypted backups. WhatsApp encourages users who are already using these features to encourage their friends to do the same.
WhatsApp is committed to providing the highest level of security possible, and it will continue to update the platform with new security features. Users can expect more updates soon.
14 April 2023
