Password support is coming to WhatsApp, adding a new layer of security
WhatsApp, the most popular messaging app in the world, has long been regarded as one of the more secure options in the market. The app built its reputation on a range of protections, including end-to-end encryption, encrypted backups, disappearing messages, strict media-viewing controls, two-step verification at login, and several additional safeguards to protect user accounts.
Meta, which owns the app, is now preparing to further strengthen security by reinforcing the platform’s front door with a password.
At present, WhatsApp allows users to enable two-step verification with a six-digit PIN. When signing in on a new device, you need to enter that extra code in addition to the standard authentication steps. However, a new update in development suggests that this PIN-based system may soon be expanded into a more robust system. Instead of relying solely on a six-digit numeric code, users may be able to create a full alphanumeric account password.
The potential change was uncovered by WABetaInfo after examining WhatsApp beta for Android version 2.26.7.8. According to findings from the beta build, users will be able to create a password between 6 and 20 characters in length.
The option would appear within the app’s settings menu. To meet the requirements, the password must contain at least one letter and one number and can include up to 20 characters. Importantly, enabling an account password would remain optional.
Introducing an alphanumeric password significantly raises the barrier to brute-force attacks. For instance, in a SIM swap scenario where an attacker intercepts verification messages and bypasses two-factor authentication, access to the account would still require a separate six- to twenty-character password. That additional credential could make unauthorized entry considerably more difficult.
The feature is not yet available to the public and remains under development. As with many WhatsApp updates, it is expected to appear first in beta testing before expanding to a wider release at a later stage.
