How to enable end-to-end encryption in WhatsApp

End-to-end encryption is essential for ensuring your conversations remain private and secure. WhatsApp automatically provides end-to-end encryption for all messages, calls, and media shared on the platform. This guide will walk you through the steps to verify that encryption is enabled and how to ensure your chats are secure on both Android and iOS devices.

What is End-to-End Encryption?

End-to-end encryption means that your messages are encrypted on your device and only decrypted by the recipient’s device. This ensures that no one else, not even WhatsApp, can read or listen to your messages and calls.

Verifying End-to-End Encryption

Here’s how you can verify that your chats are encrypted on WhatsApp:

For Android and iOS Users

1. Open WhatsApp:

• Launch the WhatsApp app on your Android or iOS device.

2. Select a Chat:

• Open the chat with the person you want to verify encryption with. It can be an individual or a group chat.

3. View Contact Info:

• Tap on the contact’s name or group info at the top of the screen to open the contact or group info page.

4. Encryption Option:

• Scroll down and select Encryption. This option shows the encryption status of your messages with this contact or group.

5. Verify Code:

• You will see a QR code and a 60-digit number. To verify the encryption, you can:
  • Scan the QR Code:
  • If the person is nearby, you can scan each other’s QR code. Tap on Scan Code and align it with the other person’s QR code.
  • Compare the 60-digit Number:
  • Compare the 60-digit number with the contact in person or over a secure channel. If they match, your conversations are encrypted.

How to Enable End-to-End Encryption in WhatsApp

1. Keep Your App Updated:

• Make sure you are always using the latest version of WhatsApp. Updates often include important security enhancements.

2. Enable Two-Step Verification:

• Go to Settings > Account > Two-step verification > Enable. This adds an extra layer of security by requiring a PIN when registering your phone number with WhatsApp again.

3. Backup Encryption:

• For added security, you can enable encrypted backups. Go to Settings > Chats > Chat Backup > End-to-end Encrypted Backup > Turn On. Follow the prompts to create a password or use a 64-digit encryption key to secure your backup.

Conclusion

Enabling and verifying end-to-end encryption on WhatsApp is straightforward but crucial for maintaining privacy and security in your communications. By following the steps outlined above, you can ensure that your chats are protected from prying eyes.