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

WhatsApp has consistently prioritised privacy for its users, and a recent update has introduced a new way to keep conversations private on the instant messaging platform. WhatsApp’s new chat lock feature can save you from exposing confidential information which is readily available on your phone.  

How does the chat lock feature work

WhatsApp’s chat lock feature takes your conversation thread and puts it in a protected folder. However, unlike the archive folder, users can only access it with the correct password. Additionally, you can choose between a biometric and a password to protect your chat. Once you opt for this feature, the conversation automatically conceals itself, and its contents are hidden behind a privacy feature for your safety.  

How to use the WhatsApp chat lock feature 

If you’re wondering how to get started at locking your chats, there are a few steps you would have to follow. First, ensure that your WhatsApp app is updated to the latest version before you carry out the following steps:  

1. Open the app and select the chat or group you wish to lock 
2. Navigate to the profile photo and click on it to expand the menu within the conversation
3. On scrolling down to the end, you will find a ‘Chat Lock’ option below the ‘Disappearing Messages’ feature  
4. Once you click on this option, you will enable the feature and will be led to authenticate your phone’s password or biometrics for the app

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After your chat is locked, you have a few steps to access it on WhatsApp. On opening the app, you will find a list of conversations displayed on the home page. After swiping down, you will see a menu listing all your hidden chats. Select the chat you wish to access with your chosen password, and you’re good to go!  

It is crucial to note that password-protected chats will remain hidden from your screen until you decide to unlock them. Additionally, the tech giant has promised several other updates that it will be introducing to the platform in the future.