WhatsApp makes it easier to protect chat backups with passkey encryption

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WhatsApp is rolling out a new way to keep your chat backups safe — and this time, you won’t need to remember any long passwords or complicated codes. The messaging app has introduced passkey-encrypted backups, a simpler and more secure way to protect your chat history.

Until now, users could secure their backups using end-to-end encryption with a password or a 64-digit key. While that offered strong protection, it wasn’t always convenient. The new update changes that by letting users use something they already rely on every day — their fingerprint, face ID, or phone’s screen lock code.

Here’s how it works: when you turn on passkey encryption, WhatsApp will use your phone’s built-in security system to encrypt your backup automatically. That means if you ever switch to a new phone or reinstall WhatsApp, you can access your old messages just by authenticating with your fingerprint or face — no password required.

Your backup will still stay private, just like your regular chats and calls. Even WhatsApp or your cloud service provider (like Google Drive or iCloud) won’t be able to access it. The new feature combines ease of use with strong security, so your conversations, photos, and voice notes remain protected even if your device is lost or stolen.

WhatsApp says the update will roll out gradually over the coming weeks and months. Once available, you can enable it by heading to Settings → Chats → Chat backup → End-to-end encrypted backup.

With this change, WhatsApp is making security feel seamless — ensuring that your memories and messages are always just a tap (or a glance) away, but still safely locked from everyone else.