Keeping your WhatsApp chats private is essential, especially if you share your phone with others. WhatsApp provides a built-in feature to lock the app using a password, fingerprint, or Face ID, depending on your device. By enabling this feature, only you can access your chats, adding an extra layer of security to your messages. Here is how to lock WhatsApp with password.
- Use WhatsAppās Built-in Lock Feature
WhatsApp allows you to lock the app with a fingerprint, Face ID, or screen lock PIN without needing third-party apps. This feature is available on both Android and iPhone devices.
For Android Users (Fingerprint or Screen Lock)
- Open WhatsApp
- Tap the three dots in the top right corner
- Select Settings > Privacy
- Scroll down and tap Fingerprint Lock
- Toggle on Unlock with Fingerprint
- Place your finger on the scanner to confirm
- Set the auto-lock timing (immediately, after 1 minute, or after 30 minutes)
If your phone does not have a fingerprint scanner, you can use third-party app locks or your deviceās built-in App Lock feature.
For iPhone Users (Face ID or Touch ID)
- Open WhatsApp
- Tap Settings > Privacy
- Select Screen Lock
- Choose Face ID (for newer iPhones) or Touch ID (for older models)
- Enable the lock and choose the auto-lock timing
After setting this up, WhatsApp will require Face ID, Touch ID, or a passcode every time you open the app.
- Lock WhatsApp Using Your Phoneās Built-in App Lock
If your Android device does not support Fingerprint Lock, you can use the built-in App Lock feature available on some smartphones.
For Samsung Devices
- Go to Settings > Advanced Features
- Tap App Lock
- Select WhatsApp and enable password, PIN, or fingerprint lock
For Xiaomi, Huawei, and OnePlus Phones
- Open Settings > Security & Privacy
- Tap App Lock
- Select WhatsApp and set up a PIN, pattern, or fingerprint lock
This method prevents unauthorized access to WhatsApp even if someone has access to your phone.
- Use Third-Party App Lockers (For Extra Security)
If your phone does not have a built-in App Lock, you can download a third-party app locker from the Play Store. Some popular choices include:
- AppLock by DoMobile
- Norton App Lock
- Smart AppLock
To use these apps:
- Install the App Lock from the Play Store
- Open the app and set up a PIN, pattern, or fingerprint lock
- Select WhatsApp from the list of apps to lock
These apps provide additional security features like intruder selfies, which take a picture of anyone who tries to access WhatsApp without permission.
- Hide WhatsApp Notifications for More Privacy
Even if you lock WhatsApp, your messages might still appear in notifications. To keep them private, disable message previews:
For Android
- Open Settings on your phone
- Tap Notifications > WhatsApp
- Toggle off Show Content in Notifications
For iPhone
- Go to Settings > Notifications > WhatsApp
- Set Show Previews to Never
Now, message content will not appear on your lock screen or notification bar.
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