WHATSAPP TO LAUNCH CHAT LOCK FEATURE

WASHINGTON

: appears that the well-known messaging programme Whatsapp is working on a new function called the Lock Chat. The Android beta version is currently being used to test the functionality, according to the Mashable website. This suggests that Whatsapp hasn’t opened it up to a wider audience. Thanks to the new functionality, users should be able to lock their private discussions inside the chat’s contact or group information. By offering consumers complete control over who can listen in on their private discussions, this improves user privacy and security. If someone attempts to use their phone without providing the necessary credentials, they will be asked to clear the chat before seeing it. Additionally, while sending files in a locked chat, the lock chat feature stops them from being automatically saved in the device’s gallery. Knowing that this additional security measure can prevent sensitive media from being seen by anybody other than the intended recipient can make users feel safer. The Lock conversation feature is still being worked on, thus there is no specific timeline for its release. However, this feature greatly enhances Whatsapp’s privacy by giving users more control over their discussions and content. Despite being one of the most widely used encrypted messaging apps, Whatsapp isn’t the first to introduce this function. For instance, Telegram has offered passcode or fingerprint unlock since about 2018, but only for the app as a whole rather than for specific conversations, so it is unclear why Whatsapp isn’t following suit.

As development and beta testing proceed, or when the functionality is released, more information should become available.