How to hide your locked chats on WhatsApp using a secret code

WhatsApp has been on a roll lately when it comes to releasing new features. Today happens to be no exception either, for WhatsApp has just launched a new “secret code” feature for chats. Here’s what it can do for you, and how to use it.

What the secret code feature on WhatsApp is and how it works

WhatsApp unveiled a ‘Chat Lock’ feature earlier this year, using which you could lock individual WhatsApp chats using a fingerprint, or the phone’s unlock code. However, there was a loophole in this. If someone managed to register their fingerprint on the device, they could easily access those locked chats.

Now, a new WhatsApp ‘secret code’ feature addresses precisely that. You can now create a unique password, either with words or even emojis, to secure these locked chats. That’s not all though. The locked chats will also stay hidden and can be revealed only by typing in this password on the search bar, making them all the more difficult to access.

To lock a chat, all you have to do is tap on the contact name on the chat window, and on the subsequent page, scroll down and tap on the Chat lock option. Once done, tap on the toggle which says, “Lock this chat with fingerprint,” and authenticate the same with the same fingerprint used for unlocking your smartphone. These locked chats will then appear on top of the chat list on WhatsApp, which can be accessed using a fingerprint.

ALSO READ: WhatsApp chat lock feature lets you keep your private messages away from prying eyes

Now, to access the secret code feature, you need to head to the list of locked chats and tap on the three dots at the top-right corner. Here, tap on the chat lock settings and turn on the toggle for the “Hide locked chats” option. Next, set a unique password, and you’re all set.

The new secret code feature for locked chats is being rolled out to users globally starting today. For the feature to appear on your WhatsApp application, ensure the same is up to date.

Other WhatsApp features to look out for

Over the past year, WhatsApp has unveiled a flurry of new features, including the ability to share one’s screen during video calls, schedule events, use multiple WhatsApp accounts on the same device, use the same account across devices, the ability to edit media captions and messages, a voice chat feature, logins via email, an AI-powered chatbot, and a whole lot more.