WhatsApp bolsters user privacy with new automatic security codes, device verification

A new security feature called "Account Protect" has been introduced on the app that prompts users to verify their intention to move their account to a new device. This extra security check is designed to detect any unauthorised attempts to transfer the account to another device.

Users who want to move their WhatsApp accounts to a new device, will be required to verify their intentions on the old device through this feature.

WhatsApp has also added back-end checks to authenticate accounts, helping to prevent attackers from using mobile device malware to send unwanted messages from compromised devices.

Additionally, WhatsApp is introducing a new feature that allows users to automatically verify that they have a secure connection while chatting with their contact.

This feature uses an Auditable Key Directory (AKD), based on an open-sourced library, that maintains public keys mapped to user accounts. The library enables WhatsApp clients to automatically validate a user's encryption key, making the process of verifying a secure connection easier and more accessible to everyone.

It is to be noted that WhatsApp already offers a security code verification feature, which enables users to validate security keys with a QR code scan or a unique 60-digit code.

However, this process can be cumbersome and requires manual checking under a contact's info. The new feature eliminates the need for sharing the 60-digit code, providing a more seamless user experience.

The company has stated that these features will be rolled out to all of its users worldwide in the coming months.