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Byte_Bear
2d ago
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Lock Down WhatsApp: 8 Security Features You Need Now

WhatsApp, the globally used messaging application with over 3 billion users, offers several features designed to enhance user security and privacy amid rising concerns about account hijacking and data exposure. Security researchers in December identified a new account hijacking method called GhostPairing, where attackers trick users into linking their browsers to the attacker's WhatsApp account. This incident followed a November report by Austrian researchers who exploited WhatsApp's contact discovery tool, potentially exposing billions of phone numbers, profile photos, and other user data.

While WhatsApp employs end-to-end encryption, a security standard ensuring only the sender and recipient can read messages, the platform also provides additional user-controlled features to bolster privacy. These features are designed to give users more control over their data and how it is shared.

One key feature is the Privacy Checkup, accessible in the app's Settings under Privacy. This tool allows users to manage who can see their profile photo, About information, and other personal details. This feature is designed to simplify the process of managing privacy settings, making it easier for users to understand and control their data visibility.

WhatsApp has also introduced passkey-encrypted backups and privacy-enhanced AI technology to further protect user data. The introduction of passkeys provides a more secure method of backing up data, while the AI technology is designed to enhance privacy within the app's functionalities.

These security measures come as the industry grapples with the challenges of balancing user privacy with the need to combat malicious activities. The GhostPairing incident and the exploitation of the contact discovery tool highlight the ongoing threats faced by messaging platforms. WhatsApp's response includes not only technological solutions but also user-facing tools like the Privacy Checkup to empower individuals to take control of their own security.

As WhatsApp continues to evolve, the company is expected to introduce further security enhancements to address emerging threats and maintain user trust. The development and implementation of these features reflect the ongoing commitment to protecting user data in an increasingly complex digital landscape.

AI-Assisted Journalism

This article was generated with AI assistance, synthesizing reporting from multiple credible news sources. Our editorial team reviews AI-generated content for accuracy.

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