WhatsApp, the world’s most popular instant messaging app, has always required users to use their phone number as their login.
However, a recent discovery in the beta release for Android suggests that Meta (formerly Facebook) may soon introduce the option to associate an email address with users’ phone numbers for added security.
This upcoming feature is not expected to replace the phone number login but rather serve as an additional layer of protection against hacks and takeovers. While hacking a WhatsApp account is challenging due to the need for access to the target’s phone number or device, unfortunate events like losing one’s phone or having it stolen can still cause account recovery issues.
In such cases, the current process involves deactivating the previous SIM card and obtaining a new one for use in a different handset. This recovery process can take time, leaving users without access to their WhatsApp accounts temporarily.
The introduction of an email security option could prove beneficial in such scenarios. By linking an email address to their WhatsApp account, users may regain access more swiftly in case of phone loss or theft.
WABetaInfo, a blog known for unearthing new WhatsApp features ahead of official announcements, reports that Meta has been testing security enhancements since April. These measures aim to prevent hackers from stealing WhatsApp accounts and protect against malware apps attempting to send unauthorized messages. Additionally, automatic security codes have been introduced to enhance the end-to-end security verification process.
In the latest WhatsApp beta for Android (version 2.23.16.15), the email login security feature has surfaced. The screenshot shared by WABetaInfo shows Meta’s intention to offer users the option to associate their email with their phone number, further safeguarding their WhatsApp accounts.
As Meta continues to test these features in beta versions, WhatsApp users can look forward to enhanced account protection and increased peace of mind while using the widely popular messaging app.
*Please note that these features are currently in beta testing and may undergo further refinements before being officially rolled out to all users.*
