Two-Step Authentication Finally Coming to WhatsApp

You know what’s nice? Being able to hop onto any Wi-Fi network as you travel around the world and still be able to communicate with all your friends and family, all without having to actually add them to a specific messenger. WhatsApp has been great for that purpose, but it hasn’t always been totally secure. That’s changing, because at long last, they’re introducing two-step authentication.

The idea of using a two-step authentication system for WhatsApp has been bandying around for several months now and while they’re not quite ready to push it into the main release, it is available in the current WhatsApp beta. According to Android Police, you’ll be able to find this added security option in the account settings in the app. It’s listed as two-step verification, right underneath the “security” options.

By adding this extra measure, you’ll be required to enter a six-digit code every time you add a new device to your account, like when you switch phones.

Curiously, unlike almost every other two-step verification system, the one with WhatsApp doesn’t rely on a code that generates every few seconds. Instead, you enter a static six-digit code the first time you set up two-step authentication. That’s odd, don’t you think?

In effect, all you’re really doing is adding a password to your account and it has to be six numbers.

Don’t worry. If you happen to forget your six-digit passcode, as you inevitably will, WhatsApp also asks you to provide an email address where the passcode can be reset. This is an optional step, but probably a prudent one. And that’s it.

Considering the convenience of sending free WhatsApp while globe-trotting, it’s good to have some peace of mind that some random hacker isn’t posing as you, sending inappropriate messages to your grandmother.

To get your hands on the WhatsApp beta, join the official testing program. As with all beta programs, proceed at your own risk and discretion.