WhatsApp adds more security features for web and desktop versions

Messaging giant WhatsApp said on Thursday it is putting ‘more security’ into the WhatsApp Web and desktop versions, and is adding an additional layer of protection for users who link their WhatsApp accounts to computers.

“To do this, we’re taking advantage of face or fingerprint unlock where it is available on the mobile phone operating system. In order to link WhatsApp Web or Desktop to your WhatsApp account you will now be asked to use your face or fingerprint unlock on your phone, before scanning a QR code from the phone to link your device,” the company said and added that the move will limit the chance that a ‘housemate’ or ‘officemate’ can link devices to users’ WhatsApp account without their knowledge.

WhatsApp said the move builds on its existing security measures, which pop up a notice in users’ phone whenever a Web/Desktop login occurs, and the ability to unlink devices from their phone at any time.

The company said the face and fingerprint authentication takes place on users’ device in a ‘privacy preserving’ manner.

“By design, WhatsApp cannot access the biometric information stored by your device’s operating system,” WhatsApp said in a statement.

The company said the new security update for linking devices will be rolling out, alongside a visual redesign to the WhatsApp Web page on phones, to users with compatible devices over the coming weeks.