Facebook inc. has said that it is adding another security layer for WhatsApp Web and desktop app linking and logging in.
Before users would be able to link their WhatsApp accounts to their computer, they would be asked to authenticate using fingerprint or Face ID.
This additional security level is aimed at preventing unauthorized persons from linking other people’s WhatsApp account to their computer, without the account owner’s knowledge.
WhatsApp says that the face ID and fingerprint authentication will take place on the user’s mobile device, with utmost privacy observance.
The messaging app also adds that WhatsApp cannot access the biometric information stored on the operating system of the devices it is used on.
The extra security layer added to WhatsApp web on its mobile app, as said by the company, would prevent unethical use of WhatsApp on the desktop platform.
While linking the app to WhatsApp Web or desktop app, users will be asked to use face or fingerprint unlock on the phone.
Once this step is sorted, users can then access the QR code scanner from the phone. Thereafter, will the linking process with the computer be complete.
“This will limit the chance that a housemate or officemate (when we have those again) can link devices to your WhatsApp account without you. This builds on our existing security measures today, which pop up a notice in your phone whenever a Web/Desktop login occurs, and the ability to unlink devices from your phone at any time,” WhatsApp explains.
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WhatsApp confirms that the new security feature will be rolling out in the coming weeks. A visual redesign to WhatsApp Web pages on phones will also be introduced in the weeks to come.
Recently, WhatsApp has been faced with concerns from users about its new privacy policy.
The policy, which was supposed to kick-off on the 8th of February, has subsequently, been moved back till May.
As backlash from the privacy conspiracy, rival messaging apps like Telegram and Signal have been working hard to woo users over from WhatsApp.
Telegram, earlier this week, announced that it has released an update on its iOS and Android app. The update allow users to transfer their chats from WhatsApp to Telegram.