Make WhatsApp a safer place is easier than you think. Despite the fact that the platform is relatively secure and vulnerabilities are not often found, it is always possible prendere even more the level of protection of the apps.
To do this, you can change some settings that will help you to be safer on WhatsApp. In this article, we list a total of 4 that you can do right now - they won't take you more than five minutes and are perfect for completing our WhatsApp security guide
The latest version of WhatsApp on an Android mobile.
Enable fingerprint protection
It has been several months since WhatsApp has introduced the option to block access to the app via our fingerprint.
This way, if you have an Android or iPhone mobile phone with a fingerprint reader, you can protect the application with your fingerprint. You just have to follow these steps to do it:
- Enter WhatsApp and go to the Settings section of the application.
- Access the Account section, then Privacy.
- Activate the Fingerprint Lock option and verify your fingerprint.
If your mobile does not have a fingerprint reader or you do not want to use the native application option, you can also use third party applications such as AppLock.
Choose who can add you to groups
Another relatively recent feature is the option it allows you to choose who can add you to groups. This isn't the first time we've reported a WhatsApp scam circulating in groups, so making sure only people we know can add us to them is a good way to stay safe from them.
To be able to access this new configuration, all you have to do is open the application and follow these steps:
- Enter and go to the Settings section of the application.
- Access the Account section, then Privacy.
- Tap "Groups" and choose the option you want, so that only selected people can add you to groups.
Change your privacy settings
It is possible that all of your data shared by WhatsApp - your status, your profile picture, the content you share in the United States or the time of your last connection - will be shared with people you don't know.
To avoid this, you just have to access the WhatsApp settings, and in the privacy section change the parameters for share information only with your contacts, or with anyone. This way, your account will be more secure as the information is not visible to people you don't know.
Block unwanted contacts
Blocking someone on WhatsApp is one of the most effective ways to get rid of messaging app problems.
If you block someone, they will no longer be able to text you, add you to groups, see your profile picture, know if you are online, or make calls and video calls.
To block someone, follow these steps:
- Open the conversation with the person you want to block.
- Tap the three dots icon in the top right to open the options menu.
- Tap the “Block Contact” option.
A WhatsApp conversation on an Android mobile.
WhatsApp is, in itself, a fairly safe application for the vast majority of people who use it - despite the fact that the creator of Telegram says otherwise -. However, you always can get more from the application through some of its included options.
With these four settings, you won't be totally exempt from the problems that might be caused by platform security breaches, but you can rest a little more at ease knowing that the your WhatsApp profile is more secure before.
