WhatsApp is rolling out new security features designed to make accounts harder for scammers and hackers to compromise. The Meta-owned messaging platform has introduced updates covering passkeys, two-step verification and calls from unknown numbers.

The company says these additions will give users more control over their account security and make it easier to identify potentially suspicious activity.

One WhatsApp Account Can Now Have Multiple Passkeys

One of the biggest changes is the ability to add multiple passkeys to a single WhatsApp account.

Passkeys are designed to make logging into an account more convenient and secure without requiring users to repeatedly enter verification codes. Depending on the device, users can authenticate themselves using a fingerprint, Face ID or their phone's screen lock.

WhatsApp says more than 1 billion people worldwide now use passkeys across various services. With the new feature, Android and iPhone users can add multiple passkeys to their WhatsApp account.

The option can be found under:

Settings → Account → Passkeys

Having multiple passkeys can be particularly useful for people who use more than one compatible device or authentication method.

Stronger Two-Step Verification With Passwords

WhatsApp is also strengthening its two-step verification system.

Previously, users could protect their accounts with a six-digit PIN. The updated system allows users to create a password containing letters, numbers and special characters.

A stronger password can make it more difficult for someone to guess the security credentials needed to access an account.

WhatsApp also recommends avoiding simple combinations such as 123456 and choosing a password that is difficult for others to predict.

More Details When an Unknown Number Calls

Another useful addition concerns calls from people who aren't saved in your contacts.

WhatsApp will now provide additional information when an unknown number calls. On Android, users may be able to see details such as whether the caller is from another country and whether the caller shares a group with them.

This additional context could help users decide whether an unfamiliar call is worth answering.

The feature is particularly useful because scammers often try to create a sense of urgency and pressure people into responding immediately.

End-to-End Encryption Remains

Despite these new security changes, WhatsApp says end-to-end encryption for personal messages and calls remains unchanged.

The new tools are intended to provide an additional layer of protection against account takeovers and scams while giving users more information when dealing with unknown callers.

WhatsApp Users Should Still Stay Alert

These security features can make an account more difficult to compromise, but users should continue following basic safety practices. Avoid sharing verification codes or passwords with anyone, use strong and unique security credentials, and be cautious when receiving unexpected messages or calls.