How to enable fingerprint authentication for WhatsApp on iOS, Android
What's the story
WhatsApp is constantly adding new features to its platform, making the messaging app more functional and secure for billions of users. In a recent development, the company introduced a new biometric authentication feature on its Android app, allowing you to block unauthorized users from accessing the app. The feature was introduced for iOS users in February. Here's how you can enable this feature.
An overview
First, here's how the fingerprint lock feature works
WhatsApp's fingerprint lock feature allows users to encrypt app access, letting them (or other authorized users) gain entry to the app only after secure biometric authentication. In simple words, your fingerprint now works like a password to unlock WhatsApp. The app uses the phone's built-in fingerprint reader (Touch ID/Face ID on iOS devices) to read the fingerprint and grant access only upon successful verification.
Getting started
How to turn on the feature on WhatsApp for iOS?
Before getting started, make sure that your iOS device is running the latest WhatsApp version (for iPhone it is 2.19.20). Head to the "Settings" tab on your WhatsApp (not phone) and tap on "Privacy". Now, scroll down to Screen Lock feature and set the toggle on. Once enabled, your Touch ID/Face ID will unlock the WhatsApp app.
Process
How to enable biometric authentication for WhatsApp on Android?
Meanwhile, on an Android phone, ensure that your WhatsApp is running the latest version 2.19.221. Now, go to WhatsApp "Settings" on your handset, then "Account", and now tap on "Privacy". Under the "Privacy" header, look for "Fingerprint unlock" feature and enable it by confirming that you want to use your registered fingerprint sensor to securely unlock WhatsApp.
Method #2
On some phones, you may have to follow different process
Notably, on some Android phones, you may have to follow a different approach to encrypt access to WhatsApp. So, if you're unable to turn on the feature using the aforementioned method, go to "Settings" on your device and search for "Utilities". Tap on "App locker" and enter your device pin to login. Now click on "Add apps" icon and select WhatsApp from the list.