WhatsApp is continuing to add features and security measures to it's messaging service. The Facebook-owned application rolled out end-to-end encryption earlier this year and they look set to beef their security up even further.
The company's latest BETA version of the app for Android includes a two-step verification process, and it's thought this could be rolled out across the board in the near future.
The new feature involves a 6-digit passcode that will act as an extra layer of security when setting up the messing app on a new device. It's hoped that this, working alongside the text message verification step that is already in place, will ensure that only the account holder can access the information.
It's said that WhatsApp will "periodically" ask users to re-enter their six digit code.
To enable two-step verification, open WhatsApp > Settings > Account > Two-step verification > Enable.
If you do enable this feature, it's highly recommended that you insert an email address, just in case you get locked out of your account.
"Upon enabling this feature, you can also optionally enter your email address. This email address will allow WhatsApp to send you a link via email to disable two-step verification in case you ever forget your six-digit passcode, and also to help safeguard your account. We do not verify this email address to confirm its accuracy. We highly recommend you provide an accurate email address so that you're not locked out of your account if you forget your passcode."