Technology
WhatsApp introduces stronger two-step verification options and multi-device passkeys
The Meta-owned service is replacing mandatory six-digit PINs for two-factor authentication with full passwords while adding new context features for unknown callers.
The short version
- WhatsApp updated its security features to allow two-step verification using full alphanumeric passwords instead of standard six-digit PINs.
- Users can now register multiple passkeys per account to facilitate secure logins across both Android and iOS devices.
- Android users will now see contextual details for incoming calls from unsaved numbers, including country of origin and shared group chats.
- The updated two-step verification settings require a minimum of eight characters, incorporating at least one letter and one number.
Key facts
- WhatsApp is upgrading its two-step verification system by allowing optional alphanumeric passwords with special characters to replace the traditional six-digit PIN system.[TechCrunch · 9to5Google · Engadget]
- The new two-step verification passwords require at least eight characters, including at least one number and one letter.[Engadget]
- WhatsApp now supports attaching multiple passkeys to a single account, allowing cross-platform use across Android and iOS.[TechCrunch · Engadget]
- For Android users, incoming calls from numbers not saved in contacts will now show additional context, such as originating country and mutual group memberships.[TechCrunch · 9to5Google · Engadget]
- WhatsApp stated that one billion users have adopted passkey authentication since the feature initially launched in 2024.[TechCrunch · 9to5Google]
What remains uncertain
- It is unstated when or if the updated incoming call screen context feature for unknown callers will expand to iOS devices.[9to5Google · Engadget]