WhatsApp now requires biometric data on a laptop

WhatsApp now asks users for biometric data if they want to use Web or Desktop, the apps that allow you to view your conversations on your laptop. The popular chat app announced this via Twitter.

Users now have to confirm their identity via their phone with a fingerprint or facial recognition, depending on the smartphone they are using. Previously, this was done with a QR code that had to be scanned with the smartphone.

WhatsApp explicitly states that the app will not have access to fingerprints or facial scans. The check is done via the smartphone, and the data does not reach the company itself.

This way, chats on WhatsApp should be more secure.