Highlights
- WhatsApp transitions from SMS-based two-factor authentication to Passkey for Android users.
- Passkey integration with smartphone authentication like fingerprint and passcode.
- Google’s Passkey storage functionality bolsters both speed and security during user authentication.
WhatsApp is bidding adieu to two-factor authentications via SMS.
Now the Meta-owned messaging giant is going to make the process passwordless for all Android users.
As per the new update, just your device’s mode of authentication, whether it is fingerprint or passcode, would be sufficient for any authentication and would allow you to access your chats.
Introduction of Passkeys: A Unique Cryptographic Feature
In a very basic sense, the Passkeys will come with a unique cryptographic feature that will pair it with your existing smartphone authentication lending credibility when you try to access your chats.
Google’s new passkey storage feature not only enhances user authentication speed but also adds an extra layer of security against the risks associated with password reuse and phishing schemes.
This improvement was disclosed following the tech giant’s announcement of including passkey storage capabilities in its password manager.
WABetaInfo’s Insight
The company had been working on this feature for a while before and it had been in continuous beta testing as well.
WABetaInfo, the foremost authority on WhatsApp feature leaks and tests, had reported that this particular Passkey testing had already begun back in September.
As per WABetaInfo, the new function eliminates the need for SMS-based one-time passwords during the sign-in procedure, enhancing security.
Users can employ various on-device authentication methods like fingerprint scanning, facial recognition, PIN, or swipe patterns.
Simultaneously, the above-mentioned cryptographic key will be securely saved in Google’s Password Manager.
What’s Next?
In terms of a wider rollout, it remains to be seen when and how WhatsApp will bring the feature to everyone in the global audience.
Apart from that, iOS users currently will not be getting Passkeys for WhatsApp, but it would appear from leaks that a feature targeting the user base is in the works.
The shift towards passwordless authentication represents a significant leap in making digital security more user-friendly while maintaining high levels of security.
It reflects broader industry trends of moving away from the use of passwords, which are often vulnerable to hacks and phishing attacks.
This development is particularly critical at a time when cyber threats are increasingly sophisticated, requiring a more robust and easily manageable form of protection.
FAQs
Ques) What is WhatsApp Passkey?
WhatsApp Passkey is a passwordless authentication method that uses your device’s built-in features like fingerprint or passcode.
Ques) Is WhatsApp Passkey available for iOS users?
The feature is not yet available for iOS, but it seems a similar feature is being developed for Apple users.
Ques) How does Google’s Passkey storage interact with WhatsApp Passkey?
Google’s Passkey storage complements WhatsApp Passkey by offering faster authentication and extra security layers against common risks.
Ques) Who first reported on WhatsApp Passkey?
WABetaInfo, a reliable source for WhatsApp updates, revealed that the testing of WhatsApp Passkey started in September.