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WhatsApp introduces new security features to combat scams
WhatsApp is rolling out several security enhancements to combat fraud and unauthorized account access. A key new feature, ‘Scam Alert’, is currently being tested in Android beta versions. This tool uses on-device machine learning to identify suspicious patterns in messages from unknown senders. To maintain privacy and end-to-end encryption, the analysis occurs entirely on the user's device, meaning message content is not sent to Meta or third parties for classification.
In addition to scam detection, the platform is strengthening account authentication. Users can now use multiple passkeys (biometrics like Face ID or fingerprints) for easier and more secure logins. The traditional six-digit PIN for two-step verification is being upgraded to allow for longer, alphanumeric passwords containing special characters.
Furthermore, WhatsApp is improving transparency for incoming calls from unknown numbers. On Android, users may see additional context, such as whether the caller is from a different country or if there are mutual groups shared between the parties. These updates aim to provide users with more information to evaluate potential risks before engaging in communication.
Entities
Android · Ios · Meta · WABetaInfo · WhatsApp
Claims
What the coverage asserts, and how many sources carry each claim.
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Fraudulent ads on Facebook and Instagram were used to distribute malicious Android applications.
- [○ 1 SOURCE] The platform will provide more information during calls from unknown numbers, such as indicating if the caller is from another country or if there are shared groups. www.pravda.sk
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Cyber scam losses in India reached nearly $2.4 billion in 2025.
- [○ 1 SOURCE] WhatsApp is upgrading two-step verification to allow longer passwords combining letters, numbers, and special characters. www.pravda.sk
- [○ 1 SOURCE] WhatsApp is introducing new security features to combat scammers. www.pravda.sk
- [○ 1 SOURCE] WhatsApp is expanding login options through the use of passkeys. www.pravda.sk