Android users may soon get new secret code feature for locked chats

• Image Credit: Google

• Nov 13, 2023 | Dhupali Das

In a bid to bolster user privacy, WhatsApp, the world's leading messaging app, is reportedly testing a new secret code feature for locked chats on its...

Digital Desk: In a bid to bolster user privacy, WhatsApp, the world's leading messaging app, is reportedly testing a new secret code feature for locked chats on its Android platform. The move comes as part of the company's ongoing efforts to enhance user security and safeguard personal information.

According to insights from WABetaInfo, the new feature introduces a settings section within the list of users' locked chats. This section allows users to conceal the entry point for accessing locked chats, providing an additional layer of privacy. Once a secret code is configured, the entry point to view locked chats no longer appears in the chat list. Instead, users can access these secured conversations by entering the secret code into the search bar within the Chats tab.

The primary advantage of this feature is that it prevents unauthorized access to sensitive conversations. By hiding the list of locked chats, others are unable to easily identify or access these secured discussions, ensuring that sensitive information remains confidential. Even in the event of physical access to a user's phone, the hidden list adds an extra layer of protection against prying eyes.

The report highlights that this new feature not only enhances privacy but also prevents accidental or unauthorized entry into private conversations. Furthermore, it reduces exposure, as external parties cannot discern the presence of locked conversations.

In addition to the secret code feature, WhatsApp has introduced a new 'Protect IP Address in Calls' option. This functionality adds an extra layer of security during calls by hiding the user's IP address from other parties. By relaying calls through WhatsApp servers, the feature ensures that the other parties on the call cannot access the user's IP address, thereby safeguarding their general geographical location.

As WhatsApp continues to prioritize user privacy, these new features are expected to be welcomed by millions of users worldwide.