WhatsApp has announced a significant security enhancement: passkey support for end-to-end encrypted chat backups on both iOS and Android devices. This update means users can secure their valuable chat histories using the same simple methods they use to unlock their phones, such as a fingerprint, face scan, or screen lock PIN. (Source: forbes.com)

The move is designed to make robust security more accessible by removing a major hurdle for users. Previously, securing a cloud backup with end-to-end encryption required users to remember a complex password or safeguard a cumbersome 64-digit key. Losing this password or key meant losing access to the entire backup permanently.

Easier and Stronger Protection

According to WhatsApp, this feature extends the same level of security that protects live chats and calls to the backup stored in Google Drive or iCloud.

Passkeys are based on cryptographic key pairs, where a private key is stored securely on the user's device and is never shared. This method is inherently more secure than traditional passwords, as there is no credential that can be leaked in a data breach. The feature offers a blend of high security and user convenience.

How to Enable the New Feature

The passkey option for backups is being rolled out gradually to all users over the coming weeks and months. To check for its availability and enable it, users can navigate to Settings, then Chats, followed by Chat backup, and finally End-to-end encrypted backup. From there, they can follow the on-screen prompts to set up the new, more convenient security measure. (Source: bleepingcomputer.com)

What's Your Opinion?

Will this new passkey feature encourage you to enable encrypted backups for your WhatsApp chats? Do you believe using biometrics like a fingerprint or face scan is more secure than a traditional password? What other security features would you like to see WhatsApp implement in the future?