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WhatsApp’s secret codes
WhatsApp has announced the introduction of a novel feature known as “secret codes,” enhancing privacy within locked conversations on its platform. Earlier this year, the app introduced locked chats to safeguard sensitive conversations. Now, it’s elevating security by allowing users to further shield these chats, making them more challenging to access even if someone gains entry to your phone.
Rather than having locked chats visibly displayed in a folder, users can now conceal them behind a separate password, distinct from the device’s unlocking mechanism. This secret code can comprise letters, numbers, special characters, and emojis. By hiding the locked chats folder from the chat list, these chats can only be discovered by entering the secret code into the search bar. This feature aims to prevent unauthorized access, ensuring the confidentiality of locked conversations.
Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg unveiled the news, stating, “Rolling out secret code to Chat Lock on WhatsApp so you can protect your chats with a unique password.” This new capability ensures that locked chats only appear upon entering the secret code, safeguarding private conversations from inadvertent exposure.
It’s essential to note that using a secret code is optional; users can choose to display locked chats in their chat list if preferred.
The rollout of secret codes commenced today and will gradually be available worldwide in the upcoming months.
Back in May, WhatsApp introduced Chat Lock, allowing users to secure chats in a dedicated folder accessible only via device passwords, Face ID, or fingerprints. Meta had previously promised to enable users to create custom passwords for chats, separate from their device passwords. Six months later, this promise has been fulfilled. If you’re curious about What is New in WhatsApp Latest Upgrade, this feature is a significant enhancement for privacy-conscious users looking to secure their conversations with more personalized security measures.
The unveiling of this new feature follows closely after WhatsApp introduced “Voice Chats,” resembling Discord, for larger groups. This feature allows quieter initiation of voice chats without ringing all group members, enhancing a seamless and less intrusive group communication experience. Users simply tap an in-chat bubble to join, avoiding disruptive ringing associated with group calls.
