WhatsApp has been on top of the privacy game for a very long time. It was one of the first private messengers to offer end-to-end encryption for messages. The voice and video calls on the platform are secured by end-to-end encryption as well. In 2021, it rolled out password protection for chat backups. Users can choose to secure their backed-up chat logs using a password or a 64-digit encryption key. In the most recent update, passkeys have been added to the mix. So, let’s take a quick look at how you can encrypt your WhatsApp chat backup with a passkey.
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In This Article
Here’s why you should encrypt your chat backup
While dealing with personal chats and messages, you should always pay special attention to security. While WhatsApp ensures that no one else but the sender and recipient can see the messages between them, malicious entities can always get a hold of your account and go through your conversations. An easy way of making sure that this doesn’t happen is by enabling 2-factor authentication for your WhatsApp account. Whenever you log into your account on another device, you are required to enter a code to verify yourself.
Encrypting chat backup ensures that no one but you can recover your conversations from the cloud. Even if someone manages to get past 2FA, they won’t be able to get a hold of your chat logs if they are encrypted. Typically, a password would work just fine. However, a unique password is hard to remember, especially when it isn’t used as often. This is why a passkey is always the better option. It provides top-notch security without compromising accessibility.
Encrypt your WhatsApp chat backup with a password
Step 1: Launch WhatsApp Messenger on your phone and tap your profile picture at the top of the screen.
Step 2: Go to Chats.
Step 3: Scroll down and tap on Chat backup.
Step 4: Scroll down and tap on End-to-end encrypted backup.
Step 5: Tap on Turn on.
Step 6: Tap on Create password.
Step 7: Enter your preferred password and confirm it by re-entering it.
Step 8: Hit Create.
Your chat backup will become password-protected.
Encrypt your WhatsApp chat backup with a passkey
Step 1: Launch WhatsApp Messenger on your phone and tap your profile picture at the top of the screen.
Step 2: Go to Chats.
Step 3: Scroll down and tap on Chat backup.
Step 4: Scroll down and tap on End-to-end encrypted backup.
Step 5: Tap on Turn on.
Step 6: Select Passkey.
Step 7: Choose fingerprint, face scan, or screen lock code.
Step 8: Enrol the passkey and hit Create.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Are WhatsApp chats encrypted?
WhatsApp was one of the first private messengers to offer end-to-end encryption for its chats. This means your chats are only visible to you and the receiver.
Are WhatsApp chat backups encrypted?
WhatsApp offered encryption for chat backups back in 2021. Initially, you could secure the backups using a password or a 64-digit encryption key. Now, you can encrypt them using passkeys as well.
How do I encrypt my WhatsApp chat backup using a passkey?
Go to WhatsApp>Profile>Chats>Chat backup>End-to-end encrypted backup and select ‘Passkey’.
Are phone calls end-to-end encrypted on WhatsApp?
Yes, voice and video calls are end-to-end encrypted on WhatsApp.
How do I back up my WhatsApp chats?
Go to WhatsApp>Profile>Chats>Chat backup, select a Google account, and hit ‘Back up’.
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Final Thoughts
As mentioned earlier, this feature is being rolled out in a phased manner. In the meantime, you can encrypt your chat backup using a password or a 64-digit encryption key. To add an extra layer of security, enable 2-factor authentication for your WhatsApp account as well. If you have any questions, let us know in the comments!
