Keeping your conversations private has never been more important.
In a time where hackers are able to crack the security protections on many leading devices, making sure your information is safe should be a major precaution.
Now, WhatsApp is rolling out a new system to ensure just this, with upgraded security that should mean your chats stay private.
From this week, WhatsApp is introducing two-factor authentication (2FA) for users looking to secure their accounts.
2FA adds an extra level of security to an app or service by introducing two distinct methods of logging in to an account in order to ensure only the account holder can access it.
When activated via the Account > Two-step verification menu, WhatsApp will now ask users for a six-digit passcode every time a new phone is registered to their account.
But to offer extra protection, users can now add an email address to their account, which will be used to reset this passcode if they forget it.
2FA is particularly effective against hackers that look to 'clone' a device, done by stealing details of a device's phone number and then persuading a network operator to assign this to a new device.
The protection means that no one apart from you will be able to activate a WhatsApp account using the same phone number unless they enter the passcode or change it via the registered email address.
According to AndroidPolice, which first spotted the rollout, the 2FA update is now live in the latest beta versions of WhatsApp, which are available to download now.
The news comes as WhatsApp introduces a number of new features to its one billion-plus users across the globe.
Last month, the app finally introduced the ability to make and receive video calls across Android and iOS devices - so long as you have downloaded the latest beta version of the app.
When video calls are available, tapping the call button or contact card summons a dialog with the option to either make a voice or video call.
Calls are made over a home wifi or mobile data connection, meaning you'll need to have an eye on your allowance if you have a PAYG contract.
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