WhatsApp's Chat Lock Hides Private Conversations
Keep prying eyes from reading sensitive conversations with WhatsApp's new Chat Lock.
The feature, rolling out now, lets you move any thread out of your inbox and into a private folder that's accessible only with the device password or saved biometric. Plus, it automatically hides content from notifications, so your family and friends won't catch you blushing when an unexpected text arrives.
"We think this feature will be great for people who have reason to share their phones from time to time with a family member or those moments where someone else is holding your phone at the exact moment an extra special chat arrives," WhatsApp says(Opens in a new window).
Once the update arrives, users can tap any one-to-one or group exchange and select the lock option. To reveal the secret dialogues, slowly pull down on your inbox and enter your passcode or complete a biometric scan.
In the coming months, WhatsApp's Chat Lock will add options like locking for companion devices and custom passwords (so you can hide texts from someone who knows your phone code).
Parent company Meta recently introduced Device Verification(Opens in a new window) to curb scammers as well as more disappearing messages choices(Opens in a new window).
Sign up for SecurityWatch newsletter for our top privacy and security stories delivered right to your inbox.
This newsletter may contain advertising, deals, or affiliate links. Subscribing to a newsletter indicates your consent to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. You may unsubscribe from the newsletters at any time.
Your subscription has been confirmed. Keep an eye on your inbox!
Read more on pcmag.com
