How to secure WhatsApp: A step-by-step guide to protecting your account on your phone and computer
With more than 2 billion users worldwide , WhatsApp is one of the most widely used apps for communication, both in personal and professional settings. But this widespread use also means greater exposure: if someone gains unauthorized access to an account , they can view not only private conversations but also photos, videos, documents, and other sensitive information.
For this reason, the messaging app owned by Meta has incorporated features to block access to the app on both mobile and web platforms. This is a simple but highly effective security measure , especially useful in situations where the device is shared or left visible to others.
These protection mechanisms are part of a growing trend among users: taking control of their digital privacy. The ability to require a password, fingerprint, or facial recognition to access WhatsApp is a concrete way to prevent unwanted intrusions .
Additionally, a recent update also allows you to set a password to access WhatsApp Web from your browser, which is crucial if you're using it on shared computers. Here's a complete guide to setting it up.
Biometric unlocking, the most convenient. Photo: Google
- Tap the three dots at the top right and go to Settings.
- Go to Privacy and select App Lock.
- Activate the Unlock with biometric features (fingerprint or face) option.
- Choose when to lock: immediately, after one minute, or after thirty minutes.
- (Optional) Disable Show content in notifications for greater privacy.
Requirements : Android 6 or higher and a biometric sensor. Some older models are not compatible.
iPhone also lets you set up WhatsApp locks. Photo: Archive
- Open WhatsApp and go to Settings.
- Go to Privacy > App Lock.
- Activate Require Face ID or Touch ID, depending on the model.
- Once activated, the system will ask for biometric authentication or a code every time the app is opened.
- (Optional) Repeat the process to deactivate when desired.
- Go to web.whatsapp.com.
- Click on the gear icon (Settings).
- Go to Privacy > App Lock.
- Activate the feature and set a password.
- Choose the amount of inactivity after which it will automatically lock: 1 minute, 15 minutes, 1 hour, or 8 hours.
- To deactivate, you can return to this section, uncheck the option and confirm with the set password.
In addition to biometric or password locks , WhatsApp offers several settings that allow you to enhance your privacy. They're available on both Android and iPhone, and you should review them carefully:
- Two-Step Verification : Activate from Settings > Account > Two-Step Verification. This allows you to set an additional security PIN, useful if someone tries to register your account from another phone.
- Profile photo and last seen settings: Within Privacy, you can limit who sees your photo, status, last seen, and updates. It's recommended to leave it as "My Contacts" or "Nobody," depending on the level of privacy you're seeking.
- Locked Chats: WhatsApp has added an option to hide individual conversations behind a biometric layer. Simply long-press on a chat, tap the lock icon, and follow the instructions.
- Turn off message preview: In Notifications, you can prevent messages from being displayed on the lock screen, which is useful for avoiding prying eyes.
- Use invisible chats: To activate them, click here .
Taking a few minutes to configure these settings can make a big difference when it comes to protecting your personal information. And, above all, it helps you use the app more confidently.
Clarin
