WhatsApp Adds Passkey Encryption for Chat Backups on Google Drive and iCloud

WhatsApp has added passkey-encrypted backups, giving users a stronger way to secure their chat data stored on Google Drive or iCloud. The new feature builds on WhatsApp’s existing end-to-end encryption, which already protects messages, media, and calls.

With passkey protection, users can now secure their backups using fingerprint, face ID, or screen lock. There’s no need to remember or manage a 64-digit encryption key, making it simpler to keep backups safe. The encryption ensures that only the user can access the data, not WhatsApp or the cloud provider. This protection applies to all stored content, including photos, voice notes, and chat histories.

WhatsApp said that its end-to-end encryption now safeguards more than 100 billion messages sent every day by over 2 billion users. While most chats are stored locally on devices, many people also back them up online. The encrypted backup feature ensures that these files remain private even when stored in the cloud.

The passkey-encrypted backup option will roll out globally in the coming weeks. Users will need to update to the latest version of WhatsApp to access the feature on both Android and iOS.

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