Beware of Remote WhatsApp Hacking, Check New Ways to Secure Your Account
Jakarta, CNBC Indonesia - Meta Platforms’ instant messaging giant, WhatsApp, has officially launched a range of new security features and updates to tighten user account protection. The move comes amid a surge in account breaches and increasingly sophisticated phishing attacks over time.
The update arrives as WhatsApp and its rivals in the global messaging industry, such as Signal and Telegram, race to make account security features more practical and accessible for everyday users.
Stronger Alphanumeric PIN
Previously, the two-step verification feature relied solely on a 6-digit numeric PIN. Now users can choose a longer alphanumeric password combined with special characters. This option makes the password far harder to guess, while also preventing account takeover even if a hacker manages to obtain the user’s OTP code.
Support for Multiple Passkeys
Users can now also add more than one passkey to a single account. WhatsApp says this feature is particularly useful for those who use two devices simultaneously with different operating systems, such as iOS and Android.
Passkey technology, which WhatsApp began supporting in 2024, is considered far more secure than conventional passwords. The feature allows users to log in using Face ID or a fingerprint scanner. Because it no longer relies on a username and password combination, passkeys reduce the risk of remote hacking since criminals must physically hold the victim’s device to access the passkey.
Additional Information for Calls from Unknown Numbers
Specifically for Android users, WhatsApp now presents more detailed information when receiving calls from numbers not saved in the phone’s contacts. This information includes:
The country of origin of the phone number.
Common groups shared between the user and the caller.
This update complements a series of new features WhatsApp has released in recent months. Previously, the company launched a username feature in late June to allow users to share their profile without having to reveal their phone number. In addition, in late May, Meta launched the WhatsApp Plus subscription service, which unlocks various exclusive features such as profile customisation, super reactions, and story insights.