What is a WhatsApp PIN and how to use it to protect your chats?

For over a decade, WhatsApp has been the most used instant messaging app in Argentina by a wide margin. Of course, over the years, along with its popularity, the risks associated with hacking have also grown. And how to protect chats has become a key issue.

Many people can't imagine their daily lives without WhatsApp . They use it to communicate with coworkers, chat with family, or even keep up with a friend who lives far away.

However, there are other reasons why this app continues to grow both in the country and around the world. One of them is the constant updating and innovation of its user tools.

Among the latest major new features it has incorporated is the ability to create images with ChatGPT without leaving the application and to create automatic summaries thanks to the help of artificial intelligence.

It also offers the ability to change the platform's color to the user's liking or create profile avatars, among other features.

But beyond these new features, WhatsApp stands out for the privacy tools it offers users. And one of its main tools for this is PIN codes .

WhatsApp PIN codes are six-digit encrypted codes that are set when you enable two-step verification.

These PIN codes are requested when registering a phone number on a new device and occasionally during normal app use to enhance security.

Furthermore, the purpose of these codes is to prevent potential third parties from accessing user accounts, thereby preventing scams and account theft.

The PIN code, also known as two-step verification , helps you protect your WhatsApp account and prevent unauthorized access.

These are the steps to follow to activate a PIN code:

The instant messaging app explains on its official website that "two-step verification is an optional feature that adds more security to your WhatsApp account."

The company itself explains that "when this feature is activated, a unique PIN is created and confirmed , which is required to access the account."

"The two-step verification PIN is different from the six-digit registration code received via SMS or call," WhatsApp warned, to avoid confusion.

If you're a frequent WhatsApp user, you registered successfully, were given a PIN, and then forgot it , you'll need to follow a procedure to create a new one.

The first thing you should do is tap the "Forgot PIN?" feature to create a new one. The app will then provide you with a new code.

Additionally, you can manage your two-step verification settings at any time by going to "Settings" → "Accounts" → "Two-step verification."