WhatsApp is adding biometric authentication to the web version

Linking a WhatsApp account with a web browser on a computer or a desktop app is now more secure through biometric authentication.

The platform added a new biometrics feature to bring a new authentication layer for those who use the web and desktop versions.

You must unlock the app before you can link your account if biometric authentication is enabled on your phone.

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The platform allows adding a fingerprint, face, or iris in order to use the desktop or web application after linking it to the mobile application, with the current authentication of the QR code.

And WhatsApp says: The goal of the new system is to ensure that if someone else accesses your phone, he will not be able to link your account to his web browser, which allows him to see any messages you send or receive.

The new system is enabled by default on any iPhones running iOS 14 with Touch ID or Face ID, and any Android devices with biometric authentication enabled.

This means that users should use biometric authentication to link their accounts unless they disable the security feature within their device.

Users who do not have or have the option to turn off biometric authentication via their phones can link their accounts as usual.

As is the case with any other use of biometric security via modern smartphones, the new system does not mean that the WhatsApp platform accesses or collects your face or fingerprints.

WhatsApp explains that it is not able to access the vital information it stores in your device, and that it uses the same standard APIs for biometric authentication that other secure applications, such as banking applications, use.

This feature comes on the heels of what WhatsApp describes as a visual update of the web page via Android and iOS applications to connect and manage devices connected to your account, and the company hints that there will be more updates soon.

WhatsApp, which is owned by Facebook, says the new update for compatible devices will be released in the coming weeks.

The popular Facebook-owned messaging app, which has more than 2 billion users, has received a lot of attention and lost users in recent weeks after announcing changes in how it uses your data.