In May 2023, WhatsApp unveiled the introduction of “Chat Lock,” a feature aimed at providing users with enhanced control over their privacy. Now, expanding upon this feature, WhatsApp has implemented the “Secret Code,” offering an extra layer of protection for chats, making them more challenging to discover, especially if someone gains access to your phone or if you share a phone with another person.
Users can now set a unique password, distinct from their phone unlock code, providing an additional layer of security for their locked chats. The option to conceal the Locked Chats folder from the chat list adds another level of confidentiality.
Users can choose to make these chats discoverable only by entering the secret code in the search bar or displaying them in the chat list. Simplifying the process, locking a new chat is now achieved with a long-press action, eliminating the need to navigate through chat settings.
The Secret Code feature is rolling out today and will be available globally in the coming months. WhatsApp remains committed to enhancing Chat Lock functionalities to empower users in protecting their privacy.
Regarding the matter, Mark Zuckerberg, CEO of Meta, said,
Rolling out secret code to Chat Lock on WhatsApp so you can protect your chats with a unique password. Now you can set your locked chats to only appear when you type the secret code in the search bar, so no one can “unintentionally” discover your most private conversations.