WhatsApp, owned by Meta, announced the launch of a new password feature for its users on iOS and Android, as part of efforts to enhance the security of personal accounts.

The new feature adds an extra layer of protection: users will be required to enter a password (a second verification code) after successfully registering their phone number, making it harder for unauthorized users to access the account, even if they obtain the six-digit verification code.

Users will be able to create a password consisting of a combination of letters and numbers, between 6 and 20 characters long, including at least one letter and one number. The app will also display a strength indicator to help users choose stronger passwords.

Setting a password will be optional, and users can update or remove it at any time, giving full flexibility and control over account security. However, the password will always be required after entering the six-digit verification code when logging into the account.

This step is part of WhatsApp’s ongoing efforts to enhance the protection of personal accounts and reduce the risk of potential breaches. The feature will be rolled out gradually in the coming period.