It works just like it sounds. When the feature is enabled, you’ll need to use your fingerprint to unlock the app even after unlocking your phone.
Soon, if you’ve got biometric authentication enabled on your phone, you’ll have to unlock the app before you can link your account.
The company says the new system is intended to ensure that should someone else gain access to your phone, they won’t be able to link your account to their web browser (which, in turn, would allow them to see any messages you send or receive).
How to enable Fingerprint Lock
WhatsApp said you’ll be able to toggle on the feature from within the app’s Privacy settings menu. You’ll see options to let the app stay unlocked for one or 30 minutes after you unlock it. There’s also an option that stops the contents of your messages from appearing in notifications.
WhatsApp for Android
- Open WhatsApp.
- Tap Settings.
- Tap Account.
- Tap Privacy.
- Go to Fingerprint Lock.
- Switch on Unlock with fingerprint, and then confirm your fingerprint.
WhatsApp for iOS
- Open WhatsApp.
- Tap Settings.
- Tap Account.
- Tap Privacy.
- Go to Screen Lock.
- Turn on Touch ID or Face ID.
- You can then tap to select the amount of time before Touch ID or Face ID is prompted.
The update to WhatsApp for Android that brings Fingerprint Lock isn’t yet live in all regions, but it’s rolling out.
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