WhatsApp is rolling out a new 'screen lock' feature to Beta users and here's everything you need to know.
The announcement comes after the instant messaging platform tested out the security feature for a limited number of Beta users last year.
The Meta-owned company has now revealed that the upgrade will be released once again to those who have joined the Beta programme.
WhatsApp said in a blog post: "Last year, we shared an article regarding the screen lock option, a feature for WhatsApp Desktop Beta.
"With this feature, it would have been possible to protect the app from unauthorized access with a password.
"When we announced this feature, it was under development so it was not ready for beta testers.
"However, after a long time of testing, WhatsApp is now releasing this feature to some beta testers that use the latest version of WhatsApp Web and joined the official beta program!"
The messenger app went on to explain how they can find out if the feature is available to them as well as the importance of enabling it if they are able to do so.
Is WhatsApp's screen lock feature available to me?
"To discover if this feature is enabled for your WhatsApp account, just open WhatsApp Settings Privacy," WhatsApp explained.
If the feature is available, you should see a screen lock entry point here, according to the instant messaging app.
"When enabled, you will have to enter a password to unlock WhatsApp Web. In this screen, it’s also possible to configure this feature by choosing when the user should be prompted with the password".
What happens if you forget your password? WhatsApp has explained that you will then need to log out of WhatsApp Web and then log into again by scanning the QR code.
Why should I use WhatsApp's screen lock feature?
WhatsApp has shared why you should use its new screen lock feature if it is available to you - explaining that it "offers an advantage in terms of privacy".
It continued: "When you enable this feature, it ensures that even if someone gains access to your computer while you’re away, they won’t be able to access your WhatsApp chats and messages without entering the password.
"In addition, push notifications will not appear when the screen is locked.
"In our opinion, this definitely helps users maintain the confidentiality of their conversations by enhancing privacy and preventing unauthorized users from viewing their personal information".
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