Discover the messaging app's new security feature. It can protect you from scams.
Always working to improve the user experience on the platform, WhatsApp's new features promise to improve message security and eliminate potential intruders once and for all.
The update was confirmed this week and aims to provide relief to those who use the app regularly and are afraid of possible account hackers. Read on to learn more about the new feature.
More security
WhatsApp has a new feature that everyone who uses the app should know about. Once again, WhatsApp, the world's most popular messenger, is getting a new update with the aim of improving the navigation of the platform's users.
This time, the new feature promises some relief and also serves as additional protection for all users of the platform. As reported in April by the news site Wabetainfo, the new feature will serve to prevent unauthorized attempts to transfer app accounts to other devices. This update includes account protection using your email address. Thus, potential scammers trying to hack your account will be surprised by this barrier and customers will be notified that someone is trying to hack their WhatsApp.
The platform is expected to launch the new feature soon, and this news could help any user verify their account in certain uncertain circumstances. However, according to the website, the new feature will be offered as an option, setting up two-factor authentication to differentiate it from other options that ask for an email address.
Target of scams
Since WhatsApp is the most widely used messaging app among Brazilians, it is also a popular tool for criminals to commit scams. To obtain personal data, credit cards or transfers, criminals pretend to be friends or family members and send fake offers or links to social networks in exchange for monetary rewards.
Scams are common, but they are especially popular among people who are not so tech-savvy. One of the most common scams was perhaps the starting point for the new large-scale WhatsApp update. The messaging apps require a verification code to log in on a new device. In this scam, once the code is received, the criminals use the app as if they had the victim's phone and WhatsApp stops working immediately. The idea behind the new feature is to test obvious services or authentications that do not actually exist.
It’s worth remembering, even before the update arrives, that WhatsApp verification codes cannot be sent to anyone. It’s also a good idea to set up two-factor authentication to require a second password. This step also protects you from SIM cloning.
Fake apps
Other common scam is the fake WhatsApp. Meta, owner of WhatsApp, explains: The only valid version of Messenger is the official version available in the app store for iPhone or Android devices. All other options that are colorful or offer additional features are fake and can lead to scams.
The same goes for malicious links that promise extensions or features not available in the standard version, such as sticker packs and app wallpapers.
