WhatsApp adds new security features to protect users against hacks

WhatsApp has introduced automatic security codes among three new features it is rolling out to make it harder to take over other people’s accounts. 

The instant messaging app, in a blog post on Thursday, said the “automatic security codes” feature is based on a process called “key transparency”.

The messaging app said the process allows users to automatically verify that they have a secure connection.

“Our most security-conscious users have always been able to take advantage of our security code verification feature, which helps ensure you are chatting with the intended recipient,” WhatsApp said.

“You can check this manually by going to the encryption tab under a contact’s info.

“What it means for you is that when you click on the encryption tab, you’ll be able to verify right away that your personal conversation is secured.”

The two other features, WhatsApp said, include “account protect” and “device verification”.

“If you need to switch your WhatsApp account to a new device, we want to double-check that it’s really you,” it said.

“From now on, we may ask you on your old device to verify that you want to take this step as an extra security check. This feature can help alert you to an unauthorized attempt to move your account to another device.

“Mobile device malware is one of the biggest threats to people’s privacy and security today because it can take advantage of your phone without your permission and use your WhatsApp to send unwanted messages.

“To help prevent this, we have added checks to help authenticate your account, with no action needed from you, and better protect you if your device is compromised. This lets you continue using WhatsApp uninterrupted.”