WhatsApp’s New Features Aim to Keep You Safe from Hackers, Scams: Here’s How
In the era of digital communication, people rely heavily on messaging apps to communicate with their friends, family, and colleagues. WhatsApp is one of the most popular messaging apps, with over 2 billion users worldwide. However, with the rise of cybercrime, WhatsApp has been taking steps to keep its users safe from hackers and scams. The company has recently introduced new features that aim to enhance the security of the app.
The first feature is two-factor authentication, which is designed to prevent unauthorized access to a user’s account. Two-factor authentication is a security process that requires users to enter a unique code, in addition to their password, to access their account. This feature adds an extra layer of security and makes it harder for hackers to gain access to user accounts.
To enable two-factor authentication, users need to go to the “Account” section of the app, select “Two-Step Verification,” and then tap “Enable.” Users will then be asked to enter a six-digit passcode and confirm it. Users will also be prompted to enter an email address, which will be used to reset the passcode if it is forgotten.
Another feature that WhatsApp has introduced is the ability to hide a user’s last seen status from specific contacts. This feature is designed to give users more control over their privacy and prevent unwanted messages from certain contacts. To use this feature, users need to go to the “Privacy” section of the app and select “Last Seen.” From there, users can choose to hide their last seen status from specific contacts or from everyone.
WhatsApp has also introduced a new feature called “view once,” which allows users to send photos and videos that can only be viewed once. This feature is designed to prevent sensitive information from being shared and gives users more control over their data. To use this feature, users need to select the “view once” option when sending a photo or video. Once the recipient has viewed the photo or video, it will be deleted from the chat.
In addition to these features, WhatsApp has also introduced a new feature called “message requests.” This feature is designed to prevent users from receiving unwanted messages from people they don’t know. When a user receives a message request, they can choose to either accept or decline the request. If they decline the request, the sender will not be able to contact them again.
These new features come at a time when cybercrime is on the rise, and hackers are becoming more sophisticated in their attacks. WhatsApp has been the target of several hacking attempts in the past, with hackers using various methods to gain access to user accounts. By introducing these new features, WhatsApp is taking steps to protect its users and enhance the security of the app.
However, it is important to note that these features are not foolproof, and users still need to take steps to protect themselves. Users should always use a strong password, avoid clicking on suspicious links, and never share sensitive information with anyone they don’t know. It is also important to keep the app updated with the latest version, as updates often include security fixes and improvements.
In conclusion, WhatsApp’s new features are a step in the right direction for enhancing the security of the app and protecting its users from cybercrime. However, it is important for users to remain vigilant and take additional steps to protect themselves from potential threats. By being aware of the risks and taking the necessary precautions, users can continue to enjoy the benefits of WhatsApp without putting themselves at risk.