WhatsApp has introduced another update focused on user privacy: a Custom Secret Code feature that adds an extra layer of security when using the platform’s existing Chat Lock feature. With both protections enabled, private conversations become much more difficult for unauthorized people to access.
The newly added Chat Lock tool allows users to password protect personal chats using Fingerprint ID, Face ID, PIN, or custom passwords. Secret Code takes privacy to the next level by hiding previews and notifications of locked chats until an additional user-created code is entered.
This keyword or phrase unlocks hidden conversations and acts as a second door after entering your standard Chat Lock credential. Provides two-factor authentication to verify identity. The secret code can incorporate both words and emojis to make it more secure and memorable.
For example, if you lock a chat with a fingerprint and then set the secret code to your child’s birthday, messages will only appear after a successful fingerprint scan and entering the unique date. Even if someone guesses your chat lock password, they won’t be able to access it without also entering your custom secret code in the search bar.
WhatApp has faced criticism for its security and data sharing policies in the past. However, recent feature additions such as encrypted backups and strong chat locks now position the Meta-owned company as a leader in privacy protection compared to other messaging apps.
As cybercrime grows exponentially, WhatsApp takes its responsibility to allow users to chat securely. Secret codes demonstrate another commitment to putting privacy first, even as it limits functionality and potential for metadata collection.
WhatsApp introduced the Secret Code capabilities on its official blog on December 5, 2023, announcing that the feature was slowly rolling out to Android and iOS users from that date. However, the company expects that full universal availability could take months depending on feedback from testing.
Historically, WhatsApp experiments with new tools using small percentages of its billions of subscribers around the world before reviewing engagement data and stabilizing any detected issues. This careful and controlled process ensures that wide releases go smoothly by protecting security and privacy.
So if the Secret Code hasn’t arrived on your device yet, keep checking for updates to access the powerful new Chat Lock partner option to hide conversations from unauthorized access.
Categories: Technology
Source: vtt.edu.vn