WhatsApp to roll out two-step verification to boost security
10 Feb 2017
WhatsApp is tightening security with the roll out of a two-step verification for all of its 1.2 billion users across iPhone, Android and Windows. The move follows tests of the two-step verification process on the beta versions of the Android app, but all users would now be covered under the roll out.
"For added security, enable two-step verification to require a passcode when registering your phone number with WhatsApp," states WhatsApp.
To enable the feature users can go to Settings > Account > Two-step verification > Enable.
They would then need to enter the six-digit passcode, which they asked for when they registered their phone number with WhatsApp. After confirming the passcode they can also also enter their email address to which WhatsApp would send a link via email. The link in the email would allow users to disable the two-step verification in case they ever forgot their six-digit passcode, and also help safeguard their account.
Users can also disable or change their passcode at any time. With the functionality enabled, users ensure that the app cannot be activated with their phone number.
WhatsApp states on its FAQ page that it does not verify the email address to confirm its accuracy. ''We highly recommend you provide an accurate email address so that you're not locked out of your account if you forget your pass code,'' adds the page.
It would not be possible for WhatsApp users to re-verify their account within seven days of last using the app without the pass code.
In case a user forgets their pass code, and fails to provide an email id to receive the disable link, then they would have trouble accessing it for seven days. The user would be able to verify their account after the seven day period without the pass code, but would lose all older messages.
