WhatsApp has introduced a feature that enhances security without the hassle of remembering complex passwords: Passkeys.
This guide will walk you through the process of setting up passkeys on WhatsApp, ensuring your messages remain private and secure.
Step 1: Update WhatsApp
Before you begin, ensure that your WhatsApp application is updated to the latest version available on the Play Store.
Step 2: Accessing Passkey Settings
Open WhatsApp and tap the menu icon at the top-right corner. Select ‘Settings‘ and then ‘Account‘. Here, you will find the ‘Passkeys‘ option.
Step 3: Creating Your Passkey
Once in the Passkeys section, tap on ‘Create a Passkey’.
Part of your WhatsApp number will be set to be used as the Passkey. Choose the correct Gmail account to link to your WhatsApp account and tap ‘Continue’.
Step 4: Authentication
To authenticate, use your phone’s screen lock mechanism. You can set the screen lock as the means to access your Passkey in WhatsApp settings by tapping on ‘Use Screen Lock’.
Step 5: Confirming Your Passkey
To finalize the setup, authenticate using one of the available methods: face unlock, fingerprint unlock, or screen lock.
Revoking Your Passkey
If you decide that you no longer wish to use a passkey, you can easily revoke it. Go to ‘Settings’ > ‘Account’ > ‘Passkeys’, and tap on ‘Revoke‘ under the listed Passkey. Confirm the revocation when prompted.
Troubleshooting
If you do not see the Passkeys option, ensure you have the latest version of WhatsApp. If you’re an iOS user, note that this feature is not yet available for your platform.
Catch up on news and other tidbits on our WhatsApp Community Page, Twitter/X, and subscribe to our weekly newsletter to ensure you don’t miss out on any news.
