WhatsApp is constantly working on enhancing user privacy and security, and now it’s reportedly testing a new feature that would offer even more control over locked chats. The Chat Lock feature introduced earlier this year allows users to secure specific chats using their fingerprint, facelock, or passcodes. According to reports, WhatsApp is now experimenting with a secret code feature that lets users set a custom password for their locked chat folder, adding an extra layer of security for sensitive conversations.
This upcoming feature has been spotted in the WhatsApp for Android beta version 2.23.21.9, available through the Google Play Beta program According to a report by WhatsApp features tracker WABetaInfo
Custom Passwords for Chat Folders
The new secret code feature would enable WhatsApp users to choose a custom password for their locked chat folder, making it even more challenging for unauthorized access to their protected chats. To access the locked chats, users would need to enter this secret code, enhancing the privacy and security of their conversations. Importantly, configuring a secret code could also allow users to lock chats from companion devices, providing a consistent level of protection across multiple devices.
Screen Lock Settings on Android. Image Credit: WABetaInfo
Availability and Future Release
While the secret code feature has been discovered in WhatsApp’s beta version, it’s not currently available for testers. However, it is expected to be included in a future update of the app, providing users with additional privacy and security options.
A Preview of the Secret Code Creation Feature
A preview of the secret code creation feature reveals that WhatsApp suggests users select a word or a simple emoji for quick access to their locked chats. This means that users may have the flexibility to personalize their secret code, and they might also be able to change or remove it whenever they wish, offering greater control over their chat security.
The Evolution of WhatsApp’s Security Features
WhatsApp’s introduction of the Chat Lock feature earlier this year was a significant step towards enhancing the privacy of its users. This feature allows users to lock their messages and conversations using various security methods like passcodes, fingerprints, or facial recognition. Locked chats are stored in a separate folder, ensuring the privacy of conversations even if someone gains access to the user’s phone. Furthermore, notifications from these locked chats withhold the sender’s name and message preview, providing an additional layer of confidentiality.
As WhatsApp continues to evolve and invest in enhancing user privacy and security, the introduction of the secret code feature promises to be another valuable addition to its suite of security options. This feature will likely provide users with more control over their private conversations and further secure their digital interactions within the platform.
