Ensuring privacy is crucial for all messaging platforms, including WhatsApp. One of the most important privacy features is Two-step verification. This feature adds an extra layer of security, ensuring that only you can access your WhatsApp account. If this feature is not enabled, your account might be at risk. In this article, we will guide you on how to enable Two-step verification on WhatsApp on both Android and iPhone devices.
Two-step verification works by requiring a code each time you log into your WhatsApp account. This is especially helpful if you use multiple devices. Setting it up is easy, but there are small differences between Android and iPhone. Let’s explore the process step by step.
also read: How to Check Your WhatApp Account is Logged In
How to Enable Two-Step Verification on WhatsApp for Android
To enable Two-step verification on Android, you need to follow these simple steps:
- Open WhatsApp: Start by launching WhatsApp on your Android phone.
- Go to Settings: Tap the three-dots icon at the top right corner of the screen. A menu will appear. Tap on “Settings” from the options.
- Navigate to Account: Once in the settings menu, tap on “Accountâ€. This is where you can manage your privacy and security settings.
- Enable Two-step Verification: After entering the account section, tap on “Two-step verificationâ€. You will now see an option to turn it on.
- Set a 6-digit PIN: WhatsApp will prompt you to create a 6-digit PIN. Choose a PIN that is easy to remember but hard for others to guess. Enter the PIN and confirm it.
- Add an Email Address: To help you recover your account if you forget your PIN, WhatsApp will ask for an email address. Tap on “Add email” and enter a valid email address. Then, tap “Save”.
- Verify your Email: WhatsApp will send a verification code to your email. Go to your email inbox, find the code, and copy it.
- Complete Verification: Return to WhatsApp, paste the code into the text box, and tap “Verify”. Your email is now linked to your WhatsApp account.
That’s it! You have successfully enabled Two-step verification on your Android device.
How to Enable Two-Step Verification on WhatsApp for iPhone
The steps for enabling Two-step verification on iPhone are very similar to Android, but with slight changes in the user interface. Here’s how you can do it:
- Launch WhatsApp: Open WhatsApp on your iPhone by tapping the app icon.
- Access Settings: Look at the bottom-right corner of the screen and tap on the “Settings” tab.
- Go to Account: In the settings menu, tap on “Accountâ€. This section contains your security and privacy settings.
- Enable Two-step Verification: Once in the Account section, tap on “Two-step verification†and then tap on “Turn on”.
- Create a 6-digit PIN: Like on Android, WhatsApp will ask you to set a 6-digit PIN. Choose a PIN and re-enter it to confirm.
- Enter an Email Address: If you forget your PIN, you can recover your account using your email. WhatsApp will ask you to enter an email address. After entering it, tap “Save”.
- Verify your Email: A verification code will be sent to your email. Go to your email, copy the code, and return to WhatsApp.
- Finish the Process: Enter the code in WhatsApp and tap “Verify”. This will link your email with your WhatsApp account.
With these steps completed, you have successfully enabled Two-step verification on your iPhone.
Benefits of Enabling Two-Step Verification on WhatsApp
Enabling Two-step verification ensures that your WhatsApp account is protected from unauthorized access. Even if someone gets hold of your SIM card or tries to log into your account, they will need your PIN to proceed.
Adding an email address ensures that you can recover your account easily if you forget your PIN. This feature enhances the overall security of your account, especially if you use WhatsApp across multiple devices.
What Happens if You Forget Your PIN?
If you forget your Two-step verification PIN, you can recover it using your email. However, if you did not set up an email and forget your PIN, you will have to wait seven days to reverify your account.
During this time, you will lose all your pending messages. Therefore, it is highly recommended to link an email address when setting up Two-step verification.
How Often Does WhatsApp Ask for the PIN?
WhatsApp will frequently ask for your Two-step verification PIN. This happens when you try to log in from a new device or periodically when using the app.
It’s a way for WhatsApp to ensure that you are the rightful owner of the account. Having your PIN ready will help you avoid any interruptions in using the app.
Final Word
Enabling Two-step verification on WhatsApp is a simple yet powerful way to protect your privacy. It adds a layer of security that ensures only you can access your account. Whether you use an Android phone or an iPhone, the steps are easy to follow and will help safeguard your account.
Don’t forget to add an email address during the setup process so you can recover your account if needed. By following the steps above, you can confidently use WhatsApp, knowing that your conversations and personal information are secure.
