WhatsApp announces a secure update of a line of accounts, with emphasis on a stronger two-step validation, support for the addition of multiple passkeys to the same account number, and additional background information for calls by unknown numbers. As fishing and account theft become more complex, communication applications are making security functions more operational.
Two-step authentication allows for longer passwords.
Previously, the two-step validation of WhatsApp relied mainly on 6 bits of PIN. Even if others were given one-off authentication codes, this layering would make it more difficult to take over the account. Users can now change this authentication to a longer alphanumeric password and add special characters to make guesses more difficult.
This means that the two-step validation is no longer limited to simple numerical combinations and is suitable for users who wish to further enhance account protection. Such changes are more targeted for those who are frequently attacked by text-fishing or social workers.
Add more than one passkey to the same account
WhatsApp also expands how passkey is used to allow users to add more than one passkey to the same account. According to the company, this is more useful for those who use the iOS and Android equipment simultaneously.
Passkey is whatsApp introduced in 2024. It is usually used in combination with Face ID or fingerprint recognition, reducing reliance on traditional user names and password combinations. This method is more difficult to steal by long-distance fishing than by common passwords, as the attackers usually need access to physical equipment that keeps the key.
- Support the configuration of multiple passkeys for one account
- Compatible face recognition or fingerprint verification login
- Applicable to cross-equipment use scene
Android's strange caller added a hint.
In terms of call recognition, Android users will see more alert information when they receive an off-call number. For example, the number of the counterparty is from other countries and there is a common group of the parties.
Such additional information helps users to make preliminary judgements before they are heard, especially in the context of cross-border fraud and an increase in the number of phone calls by fraudulent contacts. For whatsApp, the focus of this update is not to add a single new feature, but to move account protection and risk recognition to a more routine use.