How to use WhatsApp PassKeys

Passwords are today’s dominant authentication method, even surpassing two-factor authentication. They have replaced the need for users to enter a password to access their respective applications. We have seen this change on Facebook, which is now available on WhatsApp (currently in beta for Android version 2.23.21.12). This new feature allows users to experience a more secure and convenient login process.

In other words, WhatsApp users who have enabled Passkeys (a 6-digit code) on their account need to enter their previously set Passkeys to log in to their WhatsApp account. The main goal of developers introducing WhatsApp Passkeys is to protect users from phishing attacks, human errors, data breaches, and other security threats. However, some users may need to learn how to start with this feature. So, let us take a look at how to do it.

Unlocking Security: A Guide to WhatsApp Passkeys

Before understanding WhatsApp passwords, let us first understand the concept of passwords. They are a new authentication credential that allows users to log in to websites and applications without entering a password. Passkeys are based on public key cryptography, which has already proven to be a more secure form of encryption. These passwords are stored on the user’s device for a specific website or application, such as WhatsApp.

We have already informed you that passwords enhance security compared to the traditional login process. The significant improvement is the decrease in the percentage of phishing attacks. Not only that, passwords are more convenient and secure and reduce the risk of human error compared to the traditional login process. By this point, you have understood what a passkey is, how it works, and how it improves the overall authentication experience. Let us move on to the steps below to use WhatsApp passwords.

Setting up WhatsApp passwords

Note: Passkeys can be created in WhatsApp using either your phone’s PIN or password or facial or biometric authentication. The steps below are for the PIN/password method. If you prefer another option, during the third step, you will be prompted to use facial or biometric authentication. Follow that method, and the rest of the steps will be the same.

• Open WhatsApp and go to Settings >> Account >> Passkeys.
• Tap “Create a passkey.”
• Enter a six-digit passcode and tap “Confirm.”
• Afterward, enter your device’s passcode or PIN to confirm.
• That’s it! Your WhatsApp password has been successfully created.

Recovery options for WhatsApp passwords

As password-based authentication, you may lose the password that you previously confirmed. Do not worry, you have two options to recover lost passwords. You can save it to your preferred password manager or export your WhatsApp password as a text file to store it permanently. If you do not know how to export, follow these steps: Open WhatsApp Settings >> Account >> Passkeys >> Export Passkey >> Enter your phone password. Save the password text file to your device.

How WhatsApp Passkeys Secure Your Calls and Chats

If you have enabled WhatsApp Passkeys and created one, then you have a more advanced option: to protect specific chats and calls or all chats. In this case, you need to create a password for such calls or chats, which would only be accessible by you or the person you are communicating with. When you encrypt calls or chats with a password, the system generates a temporary, ephemeral public key that results in a shared secret key, which is exchanged with your recipient’s device. This provides more security for users. To enable this feature, follow the steps below.

Note: If you want to enable this feature for specific contacts, during steps 3 and 4, you will be prompted to select all contacts or manually choose specific contacts for this protection.

1. Launch the WhatsApp app.
2. Go to Settings.
3. Under Settings, tap on Account, then Passkeys, and toggle on Enable Passkeys for Chats.
4. Similarly, enable the toggle on Enable Passkeys for Calls.
5. That’s all! Your calls and chats are now protected with passwords.

Best Practices for WhatsApp Passkey Usage

Even though the Passkey feature is advanced and provides security, there are some practices you should follow to make it more personalized and convenient. These practices will enhance your Passkey usage experience. Here are some recommendations.

• Use strong keys.
• Keep your passkey private from others.
• Always back up your passwords.
• Consider using a password manager to store your passwords.
• Enable two-factor authentication on all your accounts.

To sum up, WhatsApp passwords provide an invaluable layer of security for your chats and calls. By implementing passwords, you can ensure your private conversations remain genuinely private. The benefits of passports include enhanced protection against unauthorized access and peace of mind in an increasingly interconnected world. Do not wait; take the proactive step to safeguard your digital communications. Enable WhatsApp Passkeys today to fortify your security and maintain the confidentiality of your conversations. Your privacy is worth it.

Frequently Asked Questions