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The app is rolling out a new feature to bolster user security and privacy, responding to the growing importance of safeguarding personal data in today’s technological landscape.
This update allows select beta testers to access the app through multiple authentication methods, including fingerprint, face recognition, or device passcode.
Only now, biometric authentication was an option, which posed limitations for users with devices needing biometric sensors.
A NEW PRIVACY FEATURE FOR WHATSAPP USERS
Messages are now shifted from the standard inbox to a dedicated folder accessible solely through a password or biometric authentication, like facial recognition or fingerprint scanning. This innovative addition safeguards users’ most personal conversations while concealing notifications from these chats.
Meta’s CEO, Mark Zuckerberg, announced the feature via a Facebook post, affirming its role in enhancing privacy. He stated, “WhatsApp’s new locked chats elevate conversation privacy. Encrypted within a password-protected folder, these chats ensure sender and message content remain discreet.”
How to use Privacy Checkup
- Open WhatsApp settings on your Android or iOS device and navigate to the Privacy section.
- Once in the Privacy menu, a pop-up banner will appear at the top, presenting a ‘Start Checkup’ button.
- Click on the ‘Start Checkup’ button to initiate the process.
- On the dedicated ‘Privacy Checkup’ page, you’ll encounter various privacy control options to adjust according to your preferences.
Privacy: user control, encryption, and standards are the topics that will be addressed in this text.
WhatsApp enhances its privacy features, but the Online Safety Bill debate trajectory remains uncertain. While Chat Lock underscores the platform’s commitment to user privacy, impending legislation may pose challenges for encrypted messaging apps and their users.
In the meantime, users can leverage this feature to bolster the privacy and security of their WhatsApp conversations. Stay informed about WhatsApp updates for further advancements as this feature gradually rolls out to more users in the days ahead.
WhatsApp’s Privacy Checkup Features: Guidelines to Follow
To access the WhatsApp Privacy Checkup features:
- Go to WhatsApp Settings.
- Choose the Privacy option.
- Find and click on the prominent “Start Checkup” banner at the screen’s top.
- Proceed through each section, tapping options to tailor privacy settings based on personal preferences.
Frequently Asked Question
What privacy updates has WhatsApp introduced for Android and iOS users?
WhatsApp has introduced several privacy-focused features, including hiding your “Last Seen” status from specific contacts, archive chats to keep them hidden, and more control over who can view your profile picture and About information.
How can I hide my “Last Seen” status from specific contacts?
WhatsApp now allows users to hide their “Last Seen” status from specific contacts or everyone. Users can customize who can see their activity status in their privacy settings.
What is the significance of archiving chats?
Archiving chats enables users to declutter their chat list by hiding conversations they don’t want to see regularly. Archived chats remain accessible and can be unarchived whenever needed.
How can I control who can view my profile picture and my information?
WhatsApp has given users enhanced control over who can view their profile picture and information. Users can share this information with everyone, including their contacts or specific contacts.
Are there any updates related to message forwarding?
Yes, WhatsApp has introduced limits on message forwarding to curb the spread of misinformation. This measure restricts users from forwarding messages to more than a certain number of chats to help prevent the rapid dissemination of potentially harmful content.
Has WhatsApp made any changes to its privacy policy?
As of the latest updates, WhatsApp hasn’t significantly changed its privacy policy. However, it continuously refines its features to enhance user privacy and security.
How do these updates affect user privacy and security?
These updates give users more control over their privacy settings, allowing them to manage who can see their activity status, profile picture, information about, and archived chats. The message forwarding limit helps combat the spread of misinformation, thus contributing to a safer messaging environment.
When will these updates be available for users?
The updates are being rolled out gradually to both Android and iOS users. Users can check for updates on their respective app stores or wait for the automatic update notification on their devices.
Conclusion
WhatsApp has significantly enhanced privacy features for both Android and iOS users. With these new updates, users can enjoy heightened security and confidentiality in their conversations. This underscores WhatsApp’s ongoing commitment to prioritizing user privacy across multiple platforms.
