December 1, 2023 at 05:48AM
WhatsApp introduced a new Secret Code feature enhancing privacy by allowing custom passwords for sensitive chats. The feature complements the existing Chat Lock tool and adds a layer of security, especially for shared devices. This follows other privacy upgrades and debates over governmental use of secure messaging platforms.
Takeaways from the Meeting:
1. WhatsApp has launched a new feature named “Secret Code” to enhance the privacy of sensitive conversations, allowing users to set a custom password for specific chats.
2. This feature is an extension of the “Chat Lock” feature introduced in May, which secures chats in a separate folder that requires the device password or biometric authentication to access.
3. Secret Code provides an extra layer of security by enabling users to set a different password from their phone unlock password and by allowing them to hide the Locked Chats folder from their chatlist. Access to these chats is through typing the secret code in the search bar.
4. Recently, WhatsApp also added a “Protect IP Address in Calls” feature, which conceals users’ IP addresses during calls by routing them through WhatsApp servers.
5. The French government has advised its ministers and officials to stop using popular messaging apps including WhatsApp, Signal, and Telegram, and to switch to domestic options like Tchap and Olvid by December 8, 2023, due to security concerns.
6. Le Point reported the government’s claims about security vulnerabilities in these popular apps, resulting in criticism from the heads of Signal and WhatsApp, who denied such claims and termed them misleading.
Recommendations for Next Steps or Actions (if applicable):
– Monitor any feedback or impact following WhatsApp’s rollout of the Secret Code feature.
– Consider conducting a review of the new WhatsApp features to assess their effectiveness in enhancing user privacy and security.
– Stay informed about the ongoing discussion regarding secure messaging platforms, especially in the context of government preferences and recommendations.