Whatsapp gets new security upgrades as passkeys cross one billion users

Whatsapp has rolled out a fresh batch of account security upgrades, including stronger login protection, tougher two-step verification and more context around unknown callers. The update comes as the platform says more than a billion people are now using passkeys to access their accounts.

For the uninitiated, a passkey lets you get back into Whatsapp using your fingerprint, face or your phone’s screen lock instead of fiddling with codes or PINs. There’s also a new tweak for anyone who juggles both Android and iOS, as you can now add more than one passkey to your account.

Alongside that, Whatsapp has also strengthened its two-step verification, the extra layer that stops someone hijacking your account even if they somehow get hold of your one-time code. It used to be a six-digit PIN, but it’s now a full password, meaning it can be longer, alphanumeric and include special characters, all of which makes it much harder to guess.

The third change is a handy one for anyone tired of dodgy calls. On Android, when someone who isn’t in your contacts rings you, WhatsApp will now show a bit more about them before you answer, such as whether the number is based in another country and whether you share any groups. Since many scam calls rely on catching you off guard, that extra context gives you a moment to decide whether the call is worth answering.

Together, the changes give users a few more ways to protect their accounts and avoid suspicious calls. It’s worth checking your settings to make sure you’re making use of them, especially if you’re still relying on the old six-digit PIN for two-step verification.

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