Meta, the parent company of WhatsApp, has recently introduced a cutting-edge addition to the messaging app called the “Chat Lock” feature. With the aim of safeguarding user privacy and enhancing security measures, this novel functionality goes beyond the existing end-to-end encryption already provided by WhatsApp. By empowering users to selectively conceal specific conversations, the Chat Lock feature offers an additional layer of protection.
By opting for a passcode, fingerprint, or Face ID authentication, individuals can effectively lock these chosen conversations. This ingenious feature, which has been globally launched, will soon be accessible to all WhatsApp users on both Android and iOS platforms. Its deployment will undoubtedly contribute to a heightened sense of confidentiality and data security.
In a recent blog post, Meta announced the introduction of this advanced security measure for WhatsApp chats. When activated, the Chat Lock feature relocates locked chat threads to a designated folder. Intriguingly, any notifications originating from these concealed chats will no longer display the sender’s name or provide a message preview. Furthermore, media files exchanged within these locked conversations will no longer be automatically stored in the device’s gallery, preserving an additional layer of privacy.
Both WhatsApp for Android and iOS platforms have incorporated this formidable Chat Lock feature, empowering users to fortify their conversations with an array of security options, ranging from traditional passcodes to cutting-edge biometric authentication methods. This significant enhancement amplifies WhatsApp’s commitment to protecting user privacy and ensuring secure communication channels.
To get the feature, users will need to download the latest version of WhatsApp available on App Store, or Google Play Store. The feature is available with WhatsApp for Android version 2.23.10.71 and WhatsApp for iOS in version 2.23.9.77.
To move any conversation in the locked folder, one needs to simply tap on the thread and click on Chat Lock. As stated in the blog, Meta is working to introduce several new updates to the feature, such as creating customised passwords which are different from already existing passwords for unlocking the phone. The social media company is also working to make the Chat Lock feature work across all companion devices in which a WhatsApp account is active.
