WhatsApp Chat Backup now supports Passkeys to encrypt data

[harlan4096]

Meta has added support for a new way to encrypt chat backups in WhatsApp Messenger: you can now use Passkeys to secure your data.

WhatsApp introduced end-to-end encrypted backups for chat backups in 2021. This security feature requires users to create a password, or save a 64-bit digital key on their device to protect the data from unauthorized access.

You may be aware that WhatsApp rolled out Passkeys support for Android in 2023, and for iOS in 2024. This addition allowed users to verify their account using a Passkey. However, it didn't support chat backups, until now, that is.

Unlike the older methods, i.e. using a password or a 64-bit key, Passkeys offer a passwordless option, there is nothing you need to remember, it never leaves your device, and is easier to use. You can use your face, fingerprint, or screen lock code to encrypt your chat backups. The announcement on WhatsApp's blog says that the encryption standard that is used for chat backups is the same that is used for chats and calls in the app.

To enable Passkey for chat backup in WhatsApp, go to the app's Settings > Chats > Chat backup > and select end-to-end encrypted backup. Here, you will be able to select the option to use a Passkey.

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