WhatsApp adds multi-device passkeys, stronger 2FA passwords, and caller context
Meta unveiled three new WhatsApp security updates: support for multiple passkeys per account across iOS and Android, two-step verification that now allows full alphanumeric passwords instead of just a six-digit PIN, and an Android-only feature showing extra context about unknown callers, such as their country or shared groups. WhatsApp says over a billion users already rely on passkeys via Face ID, Touch ID, or screen locks.
GoKawiil's interpretation of the reporting above, not reported fact.
These updates address two of the most common attack vectors on messaging apps—account takeovers and scam calls—by making authentication more flexible and giving users more information before engaging with strangers. The multi-passkey support in particular reflects growing multi-device usage patterns, while the caller-context tool mirrors similar anti-scam efforts already seen in iOS's native call screening.
- WhatsApp now supports multiple passkeys per account for users switching between iOS and Android devices.
- Two-step verification moves beyond six-digit PINs to allow full alphanumeric passwords with special characters.
- A new Android-only feature shows context about unknown callers, like location and shared groups, to reduce scam risk.
Yubico YubiKey 5C NFC Security Key — If WhatsApp's passkey and two-step verification push has you thinking about account security, a hardware key like the YubiKey 5C NFC is the natural next step for locking down your other logins. It works over USB-C or by tapping to an NFC phone, so it fits both the iOS and Android sides of your setup.
See Yubico YubiKey 5C NFC Security Key on Amazon → Affiliate link — we may earn a commission on purchases, at no extra cost to you. Product picked by AI based on this article; it is not a tested recommendation.Source: 9to5mac.com — Marcus Mendes, 2026-08-25
Published there as: “WhatsApp announces three ways to make accounts more secure”
Read the original report → The summary and analysis above are GoKawiil's own, written from reporting by the source above. Facts and quotes belong to the original publisher.