WhatsApp: Security function to better protect users – via phone call

WhatsApp is currently testing a new functionality. Updates should better protect user accounts. The Messenger service wants to use Phantom calls for this purpose.

Dortmund – WhatsApp users will soon have a new security function. This should make verification of your own account easier again. The messenger service communicates directly with its users by phone call.

Repeated fraudulent programs on WhatsApp: New functionality for user protection

A call comes in via WhatsApp, but no one answers when you pick it up? This situation may soon work for many cell phone users. Background is a planned update of WhatsApp, which helps in account security WEBetainfo Announced.

This is because, again and again, those who use the popular messenger service fall victim to the worst scams. The LKA is currently warning about a code trick that fraudsters are trying to seize on third-party WhatsApp accounts. With fraud, users will receive a message from a contact’s account. In it, the so-called “friend” asks him to send him a code that he allegedly sent by mistake. If you fall for it, you face the immediate acquisition of your WhatsApp account.

Video: LKA warns – you should not fall for this WhatsApp scam

Security breaks in WhatsApp: Account verification via SMS code

Recently, WhatsApp had to fight with fake messages for its users. Users are initially sent to a fake Google Play Store via a link. In the worst case scenario, the malware is downloaded there.

The Messenger service is now continuing to close as many security gaps as possible for WhatsApp users. It also includes a new Phantom Call function. Usually, users will receive a six-digit code via SMS to verify their account. You enter this into the application.

This process is essential when users purchase a new smartphone. This is because WhatsApp accounts are permanently linked to the respective user’s phone number and device. An SMS code was previously used to confirm the real mobile phone owner (and more News about digital In RUHR24).

Launches Phantom Calls for WhatsApp Users: App must be authenticated

However, the ambassador service sees the need for optimization with this type of verification. According to reports, WhatsApp will use the new update to authorize users to call briefly when using a new smartphone or after resetting a user account. However, the messenger should only ring the new number briefly and then end the call immediately.

The application should automatically identify whether it was received on the respective smartphone – similar to how it automatically recognizes the received SMS code.

Phantom Call Function in WhatsApp: The update is only available for Android smartphones

The Phantom Call function is currently in the testing phase. According to the report issued WABetaInfo The new verification system will be fully automated and faster than verification via SMS code.

However, the new WhatsApp feature should only be available for Android smartphones. Reason: To compare the last post, the Messenger service will access the user’s call log with a Phantom call. How WEBetainfo It has been reported that this data is not intended to be used for other purposes. For data security reasons, Apple does not offer a blanket option to read call lists on iOS.

According to WhatsApp, the new security function via phone call should not be mandatory for Android users, but rather an optional option. So it should be more possible to carry out verification using known SMS method.