WhatsApp is introducing a new Secret Code feature to complement its existing Chat Lock functionality, offering an added layer of security for locked chats. This expansion allows users to conceal sensitive conversations by implementing a secret code, ensuring privacy when sharing their phone or in case of unauthorized access. Users can continue using their phone’s PIN, passcode, or biometric methods (face or fingerprint) for chat protection.

Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg announced the rollout of the Secret Code for Chat Lock feature on Thursday. With this update, users can select a chat and lock it behind a password or phrase, making these chats invisible in the main chat list. This additional security measure enhances user control over their private conversations within the messaging platform.

Testing conducted on the beta version of the app for Android smartphones revealed that after accessing the list of locked chats and navigating to Chat lock settings, users can hide locked chats by toggling the “Hide locked chats” option and entering a secret code. Once set, locked chats will no longer appear in the main chat window, adding an extra layer of confidentiality.

To reveal locked chats, users must enter the same secret code in the search bar within the app. This temporarily displays conversations protected by the Chat Lock feature, valid until the app is closed. Users who prefer the original Chat Lock feature can easily revert by accessing the list of locked chats, tapping on Chat lock settings, and disabling the “Hide locked chats” toggle.

WhatsApp ensures a user-friendly experience by allowing users to long-press a chat for quick locking without entering individual chat settings. While the secret code feature is currently rolling out to users, it is expected to be available globally in the coming months. There is no official information on whether WhatsApp plans to introduce the secret code feature to WhatsApp for Desktop or when such an update might occur.