WhatsApp is strengthening account protection with a set of new security features, including support for multiple passkeys, stronger 2FA options and smarter call screening for Android users.
The Meta-owned messaging platform first introduced passkeys for Android users in 2023 and expanded the feature to iOS in 2024. Passkeys allow users to access their accounts using biometrics such as a fingerprint or Face ID, or their device’s screen lock code. The feature was later extended to encrypted WhatsApp chat backups.
WhatsApp has now announced that more than 1 billion users have enabled passkeys. Users who have the same WhatsApp account active on both Android and iOS can also set up more than 1 passkey.
Users can access the app’s settings, select account settings and open the passkey section to add new passkeys. This allows separate passkeys to be created for different Android and iOS devices linked to the same account.
The platform has also upgraded its 2-step verification system. Users can now create a full password that is longer, alphanumeric and includes special characters. Previously, WhatsApp allowed only a 6-digit numeric PIN for 2FA.
WhatsApp is also rolling out a smarter call screening feature for Android. The app will provide additional information about unknown callers, including the country where the call originates and whether the caller shares a mutual group chat with the user.
The company says the added information can help reduce scams, as fraudsters often depend on creating a sense of urgency. With more context about calls from unsaved contacts, users can make a better-informed decision about whether to answer.
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