WhatsApp Adds Multiple Passkeys, Stronger 2-Step Verification and Caller Context

Quick Summary

• WhatsApp now allows users to add multiple passkeys to a single account.
• Two-step verification can use stronger alphanumeric passwords with special characters.
• Android users can see additional context when receiving calls from unknown numbers.
• Caller information can include the number’s country code and shared WhatsApp groups.
• The new features complement WhatsApp’s existing end-to-end encryption.

WhatsApp Expands Security Features With New Account Protection Tools

WhatsApp has announced several security updates aimed at giving users more ways to protect their accounts and better understand calls from unknown numbers.

The latest changes include support for multiple passkeys on one WhatsApp account, a stronger two-step verification system with alphanumeric passwords, and additional caller information for calls from unsaved contacts on Android.

Together, the updates give users more authentication choices while providing additional context that may help them identify potentially unwanted or suspicious calls.

WhatsApp Adds Support for Multiple Passkeys

WhatsApp is expanding its passkey system by allowing users to register multiple passkeys for a single account.

Passkeys let users authenticate with methods such as a fingerprint, facial recognition or their device’s screen lock instead of depending on SMS verification codes.

The multi-passkey option can be useful for people who access WhatsApp across multiple devices or platforms, including Android and iOS.

Users can manage their passkeys by going to:

Settings > Account > Passkeys

WhatsApp says more than one billion users now use passkeys for authentication.

Two-Step Verification Gets Stronger Password Options

WhatsApp is also changing how users can protect their accounts with two-step verification.

Previously, the feature relied on a six-digit numerical PIN. With the updated system, users can create alphanumeric passwords, including passwords containing special characters.

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The additional password options allow users to create more complex credentials. WhatsApp says the change is designed to provide stronger protection against brute-force attempts and account takeovers.

WhatsApp Adds Caller Context for Unknown Numbers

Another security-focused addition is coming to WhatsApp calls from unsaved contacts on Android.

When an unknown number calls, WhatsApp can show additional information before the user answers. This information can help users determine whether they recognize or trust the caller.

The caller context can include:

• Country code or origin: Shows the country associated with the incoming number.
• Mutual groups: Shows whether the caller and recipient are members of any of the same WhatsApp groups.

The additional context is intended to help users assess unfamiliar callers and potentially spot suspicious or scam-related calls before answering.

End-to-End Encryption Remains in Place

The new security controls complement WhatsApp’s existing end-to-end encryption, which protects personal messages and calls on the platform.

The latest additions focus on account authentication and providing more information about unknown callers. Multiple passkeys give users additional authentication options, while stronger two-step verification provides more flexible password protection.

The caller context feature adds another layer of information for Android users when they receive calls from unsaved contacts.

Conclusion

WhatsApp’s latest security updates give users more flexibility in protecting their accounts while adding useful information around calls from unfamiliar numbers. Multiple passkeys and stronger two-step verification expand the available authentication options.

For Android users, caller context can provide additional information before answering calls from unsaved contacts, potentially making it easier to assess unfamiliar numbers.

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