Cybersecurity giant WhatsApp has taken a significant step forward in protecting its users from scammers and hackers, introducing several new security features that make it even harder for attackers to gain unauthorized access. The company’s latest update includes support for multiple passkeys, stronger two-step verification, and additional context on call screens.
For the uninitiated, a passkey is an extra layer of security used by WhatsApp to verify users’ identities when logging in to their accounts. Previously, users could add one passkey via fingerprint, Face ID, or screen lock code, but now they can create separate ones for each platform – be it Android or iOS. This means that if you use both devices, you can set up multiple passkeys to make it even more difficult for attackers to access your account.
But that’s not all: WhatsApp has also upgraded its two-step verification security feature, which requires users to enter a six-digit PIN in addition to their password. Now, this PIN is no longer limited to numerical characters – users can create alphanumeric passwords with special characters, making it even harder for hackers to guess. If you’ve been using the old six-digit PIN “123456”, WhatsApp is urging you to upgrade to a more secure password.
Another new feature that’s aimed at protecting users from scammers is an update to call screens. When you receive a call from someone not in your address book, you’ll now see additional information about the caller, such as their location and whether you have any shared groups or contacts. This can help you make more informed decisions about answering calls and avoid falling victim to scams.
These updates are part of WhatsApp’s broader effort to protect its users from sophisticated threats, including spyware attacks and account hijacking attempts. In recent months, the company has introduced several new security features, including “Strict Account Settings”, which provides an extra layer of protection for high-risk individuals such as journalists and public figures. WhatsApp has also rolled out a feature that warns users when a device-linking request may be fraudulent, and an optional “Scam Alert” feature that uses machine learning to detect potential scams.
With over 3 billion people using WhatsApp in more than 180 countries, the company’s efforts to boost security are crucial in protecting its vast user base. While no system is foolproof, these updates demonstrate WhatsApp’s commitment to keeping users safe from scammers and hackers.
So what can you do to stay ahead of the game? Make sure to set up multiple passkeys on both your Android and iOS devices, upgrade your two-step verification PIN to an alphanumeric password with special characters, and take a closer look at incoming calls to avoid falling victim to scams. By taking these simple steps, you’ll be better equipped to protect yourself from the ever-evolving threats in the world of cybersecurity.
Source: Bleeping Computer — 2026-08-25