Tips to Make WhatsApp More Secure and Private:
1.
Check Encryption for Sensitive Conversations:
Even though WhatsApp encrypts all
chats by default, sometimes you want to double-check. It's good practice to do
that while sharing sensitive information like a credit card number with a
trusted contact.
To verify the encryption, start a conversation with that contact. In the chat window, tap the contact's name, and then tap Encryption.This 40-digit pattern is your security code. You can verify this code manually by comparing the digits, asking the contact to scan that QR code, or scanning your contact's code with the "Scan Code" button.
2.
Turn On Security Notifications:
When a new phone or laptop accesses
an existing chat, a new security code is generated for both phones. And
WhatsApp can send a notification when the security code changes. This way, you
can check the encryption with your friend over a different messenger, ensuring
its security.
To turn on security notifications, go to WhatsApp > Settings > Account > Security > Show security notifications .
3.
Enable Two-Step Verification:
If a service supports it, you should
be using two factor authentication (2FA). This adds a
periodic passcode to WhatsApp, and also ensures your data isn't accessed by
someone else.
To activate 2FA, go to Menu > Settings > Account > Two-step
verification > Enable. Follow the steps to create a
six-digit PIN code that you can easily remember. Importantly, add your email
address to retrieve that code in case you forget it.
4.
Protect Your Privacy on WhatsApp:
WhatsApp isn't the most private messenger
out there, but it gives users at least some control. Go to Settings > Account > Privacy to
see everything at your disposal.
You can control who can see your Last
Seen, profile photo, about, status, and live location. You can also turn off
Read Receipts here, so the blue check marks are switched off.
5.
Disable Cloud Backups (If You Care About Privacy):
The end-to-end encryption is awesome,
but there's one loophole: whatsapp back up chats to google drive or
iCloud. That way, if you reinstall it later, you can retrieve your old
messages. But this backup isn't encrypted.
So if you really care about your
privacy, then that's something you need to disable. Remember, storing your data
with Apple and Google might not protect you against eavesdropping by
governments.
To disable automatic cloud backups:
- On iPhone: Go to WhatsApp > Settings > Chats > Chat
Backup > Auto Backup > Off
