WhatsApp Desktop Log-In Now Requires Biometric Authentication
Users must use their phone’s fingerprint or face ID to log in to their accounts.
Facebook-owned, WhatsApp continues to tweak its security and privacy measures. This time, the company is adding a new biometric authentication feature that requires users to utilize their face or fingerprint to log in to the web and desktop versions.
Over the past couple of weeks, WhatsApp, which currently amasses over 2 billion users, has received a lot of pressure and heat from users regarding its delayed changes in how the app uses their personal data. Subsequently, the app has seen a decline in users in recent weeks.
The app has immediately implemented the new security addition. Users who want to use WhatsApp on their desktops or on the web will be linked to the mobile app, where users must go through an iris, face, or fingerprint scan to authenticate. The QR code feature will still be in use, however, the biometric requirement comes as a second layer of authentication.
The update comes hot on the heels of WhatsApp’s “visual refresh”, hinting that the app will see more updates in the near future. The pandemic has been a likely reason for the surge of users on WhatsApps’ web and desktop app. WhatsApp plans to add more features that bring the mobile and desktop experiences closer together. For instance, WhatsApp calls do not currently work on the web version, however, calls were spotted in last month’s beta tests.
Due to Facebook and Whatsapp’s recent public criticism regarding its privacy policies, many users have already expressed their doubts about Facebook’s intention with the addition of the biometric security layer. Though WhatsApp has previously outlined that it does not have access to biometric data, many are still skeptical.
The newest biometric feature one of many updates WhatsApp is receiving this year. The new authentication layer is currently rolling-out nationwide.
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