Meta Enhances WhatsApp Security with Stronger Two-Step Verification and New Features

Meta announced a major security upgrade for WhatsApp on Tuesday, aiming to better protect over 3 billion users worldwide from account takeovers. The improvements focus on strengthening two-step verification, detecting phone scams, and expanding access key technology.

The most significant change replaces the simple six-digit PIN used for two-step verification with a more complex password option that can include letters, numbers, and special characters. This enhancement reduces the risk of hackers guessing or obtaining the code through social engineering, even if the initial SMS verification code is compromised.

Additionally, Android users will receive a new feature that provides contextual information before answering calls from unknown numbers. The interface will display the caller’s country and any mutual groups, helping users identify potential scams that often rely on urgency and pressure.

WhatsApp also expanded its access key system, which over a billion users already use for biometric login. Now, multiple access keys can be linked to a single account, facilitating seamless switching between iPhone and Android devices. Access keys can also be used to lock and encrypt chat backups in the cloud, replacing the need for complex passwords or 64-character encryption codes.

These updates are rolling out gradually to iOS and Android users globally, including in Israel. Meta urges users to update to the latest app version and replace old PINs with strong passwords. The new tools aim to provide tighter security without compromising quick access to chats and calls amid rising WhatsApp scams and identity theft.