WhatsApp Reportedly Developing Secret Code Feature for Enhanced Security on Web Client Chats

WhatsApp is gearing up to enhance its privacy features with a new update to the Chat Lock functionality on its web version. Currently available on WhatsApp for iOS and Android, the Chat Lock feature allows users to secure specific chats behind a secret code, providing an extra layer of privacy. The upcoming update, identified by feature tracker WABetaInfo on the latest WhatsApp Web version, will extend this capability to web users.

Similar to its mobile counterparts, the web version will let users lock and hide selected chats from the main list using a secret code, which can be a word, phrase, emoji, or special characters. This added security measure aims to protect users’ privacy, especially when using shared devices. For instance, on a shared laptop or desktop, users can safeguard their chats from prying eyes by employing the secret code.

Although the feature is currently under development, it is anticipated to function much like the Chat Lock feature on mobile devices. Once the correct secret code is entered, the locked chats become visible, but they will be concealed again upon reopening the app. This ensures that the privacy of the locked chats is maintained until the user decides to reveal them by entering the whatsapp secret code.

Additionally, users will have the option to disable the whatsapp secret code feature and revert to the traditional chat lock, which relies on biometric authentication. While the update is eagerly awaited by users concerned about their privacy, beta testers will have to wait until the feature is fully developed before giving it a try.