Today you’re going to learn what WhatsApp Passkeys are and what you can use them for. It’s something that the messaging app has finally started to implement in the version for Android devices.If there is one thing that seems clear, it is that Passkey is the future . Its goal is to replace passwords permanently. Obviously, its purpose is to make all online accounts more secure and protected against phishing attempts .
How to activate WhatsApp Passkeys on an Android mobile
Before you start setting up WhatsApp Passkeys, make sure you have the latest available version installed on your Android device .
If this option is missing from your WhatsApp, don’t worry, you’ll surely have it in a few days, as it will be implemented little by little on all devices.
The steps to activate Passkeys on Android are very simple , you just have to do the following:
- Open WhatsApp on your Android phone.
- Tap your profile picture in the top right corner.
- Go to Account > Access Keys.
- Select Create a passcode.
- Tap Continue in the dialog that appears.
- A dialog box will appear asking you to save your WhatsApp account password in Google Password Manager. If you use another password manager, select Save another way , followed by Other password managers
- If you haven’t already set up Google Password Manager for Passkey, you’ll need to do so during this process.
- Tap the Use screen lock option in the dialog box that appears.
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- As a final authentication, you must confirm your identity by unlocking your phone’s face, fingerprint or PIN .
How to revoke WhatsApp Passkeys
If you are not satisfied and do not want to work with WhatsApp Passkeys, you will be able to revoke them, although this is not recommended at all.
The steps are extremely simple, you just have to do the following:
- Open WhatsApp on your Android phone.
- Go to the Settings menu by tapping on your profile picture in the top right corner.
- Now go to Account > Access Keys.
- Tap Revoke and confirm your action by pressing Revoke again in the dialog box that launches.
Are Passkeys the future of online security?
Among the largest companies worldwide, there are two that stand out for the incorporation of Passkeys: Google and WhatsApp, although others such as Apple, eBay and Microsoft have already announced that they are willing to create a similar security standard.
There is still time for this type of security to be implemented globally, but it is significant that leading technology companies already have it or are about to offer it to customers.
This won’t mean the instant “death” of passwords or 2FA (two-factor authentication), but it will be a step towards a different, more secure way of accessing what we need.
In conclusion, Passkeys are a significant advance in everything related to user security and convenience , since with them you will not have to bother remembering the passwords of your different accounts, in addition to doing a great job of limiting phishing attacks and identity theft.
WhatsApp Passkeys are one of the most significant to be implemented, because it is the most used messaging app in the world. Now you know what they are and how to activate them, so all you have to do is protect yourself more effectively.