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Desk: Meta-owned instant messaging platform WhatsApp has announced the rollout of new security features to increase the security of users. The new update will provide the facility to add more than one passkey for the same WhatsApp account, stronger two-step verification and more information about calls coming from unknown numbers. The company says that these features will help users more in avoiding scams and account hacking.

According to WhatsApp, more than 1 billion people worldwide are now using Passkey. With the help of passkey, the user does not need to enter the verification code to log in to the account again. Instead, the account can be logged in through fingerprint, Face ID or the phone's screen lock. After the new update, users who have both Android and iOS devices will be able to add more than one passkey for the same WhatsApp account. This option will be found in Settings > Account > Passkeys.

WhatsApp has also made changes in two-step verification. Earlier users could secure their account with a 6 digit PIN. Now WhatsApp is giving users the facility to create a complete password consisting of letters, numbers and special characters. According to the company, this will make it difficult for attackers to guess security information. WhatsApp has also advised users not to use weak passwords like 123456.

WhatsApp will now show more details during incoming calls from unsaved numbers. On Android, users will be able to see whether the calling number is from another country and whether the caller is included in any group with the user. This information will help the user decide whether to answer an unknown call or not. According to the company, scammers often put pressure on people to respond quickly. With new features, end-to-end encryption in personal messages and calls will continue as before.