WhatsApp rolls out stronger account protection and scam-fighting features

WhatsApp has unveiled a series of new security tools aimed at protecting users from account theft, strengthening recovery options and providing more information when they receive calls from unfamiliar numbers.

The platform said the latest features were developed to give users greater control over their security as scams and attempts to gain unauthorised access to online accounts remain a growing concern.

The upgrades include stronger two-step verification, the ability to use multiple passkeys and new details about calls coming from people outside a user’s saved contacts.

WhatsApp said the tools complement its existing protections, including end-to-end encryption, while making it easier for users to keep their accounts secure.

With the enhanced two-step verification feature, users can now set a full password instead of depending exclusively on the six-digit PIN traditionally used for account protection.

The password can include letters, numbers and special characters, giving users an additional security layer against attempts to access their accounts without permission.

“We are giving people more ways to secure their accounts and more information to help them make informed decisions about who they interact with,” WhatsApp said.

The company is also expanding its passkey system, which allows users to access their accounts using their fingerprint, Face ID or screen lock code rather than a password or SMS code.

WhatsApp said more than one billion people had already configured passkeys. It added that Android and iOS users can now set up multiple passkeys for the same account.

According to the platform, the change will make secure access more convenient for people using several devices, reducing their reliance on SMS-based verification.

Meanwhile, Android users will receive additional information when they get calls from unknown numbers.

The information could show if the caller’s number is registered in another country and whether the caller belongs to any groups shared with the recipient.

WhatsApp said the feature was intended to give users useful context before they decide whether to answer an unfamiliar call, especially because scammers may exploit unexpected calls and urgency to manipulate potential victims.

“Unknown calls can sometimes be used to create a sense of urgency and pressure people into making quick decisions,” the company said.

“With more context available at the point of the call, people can better decide whether they want to answer, ignore or block the caller.”

The new features add to WhatsApp’s existing security controls, which include options for blocking and reporting suspicious accounts and managing privacy and security settings.

WhatsApp said it would continue to invest in security features designed to protect users and help them “keep control of their personal conversations and calls.”

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