WhatsApp testing login approval feature for outside security

By Nilanjan Dey

After the update allows the admin more power in the WhatsApp groups, another set of features may be rolled out keeping security from outside in mind.

Calling it the ‘login approval’ according to WABetainfo.com, the feature will alert users if an unknown device tries to log into their account. This security feature is similar to that what is present in Gmail, Facebook and Instagram where the users are warned if their account is being logged in from a new or unknown device helping users be secured from hackers trying to gain access to personal data.

The feature will send an in-app alert to the user if someone tries to log into their account. The alert will contain the time and the mobile model info from where the log-in is happening. Just like for Gmail, Facebook and Instagram users will be given the option to ‘allow’ or ‘do not allow’ the log-in to take place and there is a possibility that the log-in will require a 6-digit code for approval. This will help users be more secure from unknown log-in attempts by hackers. The feature will be released for both Android and iOS users but it is still under development.

Previously WhatsApp enrolled features like emoji reactions in the chat. The limit of emojis was set at 5 earlier but now has risen to 8. The emojis include Smiling Face with Heart-Eyes, Face with Tears of Joy, Face with Open Mouth, Crying Face, Folded Hands, Clapping Hands, Party Popper, and Hundred Points.

 It is testing features that give permission to group admins to delete messages from anyone in the group and check past participants in the group. However, the platform has tested the new feature of checking past participants on iOS only.