GoKawiilWhatsApp replaces six-digit PIN with alphanumeric password for two-step verification
WhatsApp is strengthening its two-step verification by letting users set a full password—supporting letters, numbers and special characters—instead of the previous six-digit PIN. The company is also improving caller ID on Android, showing more context about unknown callers such as their country and any shared groups. Both features are rolling out gradually, with the password option available on Android and iOS, while enhanced caller ID is Android-only for now.
GoKawiil's interpretation of the reporting above, not reported fact.
As the world's most-used messaging app, WhatsApp is a prime target for account takeovers, and a simple six-digit PIN offers limited protection against determined attackers or anyone with brief phone access. Moving to a stronger password format significantly raises the difficulty of unauthorized account transfers, while better caller context helps users avoid scam or spam calls, addressing two common attack vectors at once.
- WhatsApp is replacing six-digit PIN two-step verification with a stronger alphanumeric password.
- Android users will see more caller context, including country and shared groups, for unknown numbers.
- The password upgrade is coming to both Android and iOS, but improved caller ID is Android-only initially.
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Published there as: “WhatsApp is ramping up security with stronger 2FA and smarter call screening”
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