WhatsApp’s security features have always been a step ahead, but with the introduction of the Secret Code for locked chats, the app has taken privacy to the next level. Initially, WhatsApp rolled out the Chat Lock feature to protect sensitive conversations, but now, with the addition of the Secret Code, your chats are even more secure.
This extra layer of security ensures that even if someone has access to your phone, they won’t easily stumble upon your private conversations. This blog will guide you on how to use this feature to ensure the ultimate privacy for your chats.
What is WhatsApp’s Secret Code Feature?
The Secret Code provides you with a way to create your password that is quite distinct from your phone unlocking code. This extends the privacy to the locked chats to a new level. With this new feature, WhatsApp not only safeguard your conversations using the code, but also allows you to hide the Locked Chats folder completely from the chat list.
To access them, you’ll have to enter the secret code that is in the search bar. This makes it possible that even if someone is using your phone, it will be very difficult for him or her to identify which of the chats is locked.
However, you have the option to choose not to conceal your locked chats if you prefer to view them in the list, allowing you to manage your privacy as you see appropriate. Furthermore, it is now possible to secure a new chat by long-pressing it rather than navigating through the settings, which is more convenient for locking conversations while on the go.
Setting Up Secret Code for WhatsApp Chats
Before you set up the Secret Code, ensure that you have already locked some chats. Here’s how you can set it up:
- Open WhatsApp and go to your Locked Chats folder.
- Tap the three vertical dots in the top-right corner of the screen.
- Select Chat Lock Settings.
- Choose Secret Code.
- Enter a code of your choice. This could be letters, numbers, or even emojis (something memorable for you).
- After entering the code, tap Next and re-enter the code for confirmation.
- Once you see “Secret codes match,” hit Done.
Your Secret Code is currently operational. Return to the Chat Lock settings and select “Hide Locked Chats” if you wish to conceal your locked conversations from the main chat list. Whenever you wish to access your chat list, simply return to it and input your Secret Code.
To access your locked conversations, simply enter your Secret Code into the search bar. The discussions will remain concealed, ensuring the security of your conversations, if the incorrect code is entered. If your phone is shared or if someone obtains access to it, they will be unable to unlock your chats without the code.
New Features and Updates with the Secret Code
WhatsApp has implemented numerous updates to its Secret Code feature. As of today, it is possible to immediately secure any new conversation by long-pressing it, eliminating the necessity of accessing the chat’s settings. This feature simplifies the process of protecting confidential conversations by eliminating the need for multiple phases.
Furthermore, WhatsApp is consistently enhancing the Chat Lock functionality, and the Secret Code feature is being implemented globally. This instrument will become even more robust for privacy-conscious users in the coming months as additional enhancements are implemented.
Limitations of WhatsApp’s Secret Code Feature
While the Secret Code adds an extra layer of privacy, there are a few limitations. Initially, the requirement to input the code each time you wish to access your closed conversations can become cumbersome, particularly if you consult them frequently. This stratum of security can be bypassed by an individual who possesses your Secret Code, which is another significant limitation. To prevent unauthorized access, it is advisable to enable two-factor authentication (2FA) for additional security.
Lastly, WhatsApp will necessitate that you clear your encrypted conversations in order to regain access if you have forgotten your Secret Code. This may result in the loss of critical data if you have not backed it up.
How to Recover Forgotten WhatsApp Secret Code?
WhatsApp advises choosing a Secret Code that is memorable, but if you happen to forget it, you can unlock and clear your locked chats by following these steps:
- Go to Settings > Privacy > Chat Lock.
- Tap Unlock and Clear Locked Chats.
This will allow you to access your locked chats again, but you will lose any conversations that were stored there, so make sure you back up your data.
