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Tech firms broaden authentication options

Updated 1 time since CLSTR started tracking revisions of this situation.

What changed

2026-07-26 07:51 UTC → 2026-07-26 16:49 UTC · added removed

In July 2026 Meta began a limited Android beta in which allowing WhatsApp users could to replace the legacy six‑digit PIN for two‑step verification with an alphanumeric password of 6‑20 characters. The trial remained confined to a small group of beta participants. At the same time Google rolled out introduced an optional “selfie‑video” sign‑in for account recovery. Users record a short guided video that captures several head angles; the encrypted reference is stored in the cloud and compared to can be deleted at any time from account settings. When a live capture if password login fails. user is locked out—because a password, phone or other two‑factor method is unavailable—the system asks for a fresh video, compares it to the stored reference and validates liveness to block deep‑fake or spoof attacks. The feature is offered as a backup, not a replacement for passwords, passkeys, recovery contacts or other authentication methods. Rollout is progressive, initially limited to eligible personal accounts worldwide, with a QR‑code fallback and unavailable for devices lacking a webcam, while Google Workspace, children’s child accounts and those enrolled in the Advanced Protection Program are excluded. Google later confirmed that the video is optional, can be deleted at any time, and incorporates liveness detection and deep‑fake safeguards. The rollout Program. Eligibility continued through late July, expanding eligibility across North America, Europe and Asia. Asia through late July. Meta announced a parallel offering: a free video‑selfie identity check that, when completed, grants a verification badge on private profiles, Marketplace, Dating and groups. The badge is limited to selected countries and adult accounts with no prior policy violations and does not replace existing security measures. Privacy advocates have warned about the collection and cloud storage of facial video data, but both companies stress that the new biometric options supplement passwords, passkeys, recovery contacts and two‑factor authentication, preserving user control over biometric information.

Versions

  1. 2026-07-26 16:49 UTC Tech firms broaden authentication options
  2. 2026-07-26 07:51 UTC Tech firms broaden authentication options

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