WhatsApp Adds New Protection for Accounts and Unknown Calls

WhatsApp has introduced three security updates aimed at making account protection easier and giving users more information when they receive calls from unknown numbers. The updates include support for multiple passkeys, stronger two-step verification and additional information for calls from people who are not saved in a user’s contacts.

More Options to Protect WhatsApp Accounts

WhatsApp has supported passkeys on Android since 2023 and iOS since 2024. The feature uses a phone’s built-in security, such as fingerprint authentication, Face ID or a screen lock, instead of requiring users to enter a separate code. Previously, users could have only one passkey linked to their WhatsApp account. The new update allows users to create separate passkeys for different platforms. WhatsApp said more than 1 billion people now use passkeys, which allow users to verify their accounts without relying on codes or PINs.

WhatsApp has also strengthened two-step verification, which previously used a six-digit PIN to add protection if someone obtained a user’s phone number or one-time verification code. The company is now upgrading the PIN to a full password. Users can also provide an email address to recover their account if they forget their password.

More Context When Unknown Numbers Call

The third update focuses on calls from people who are not saved in a user’s contacts. On Android, users will now see additional information about an unknown caller before answering. This can include whether the number is registered in another country and whether the caller shares any WhatsApp groups with the user. WhatsApp said the information gives users more context before deciding whether to answer an unfamiliar call. The company noted that scammers often rely on urgency to pressure people into responding quickly. The updates give users more control over how they protect their accounts while adding useful information around potentially unwanted calls.