WhatsApp is set to introduce a new layer of privacy with its upcoming username feature. The latest Android beta reveals that users will be able to set a PIN to protect their username from unsolicited messages. This means that anyone who wants to message a user they haven’t interacted with before will need both the username and the corresponding PIN. This additional security measure is expected to significantly reduce spam on the platform, a growing concern for WhatsApp users.
The PIN feature adds a crucial layer of protection to the username system. It ensures that only known contacts can easily initiate conversations, while effectively deterring unwanted messages from strangers. This balanced approach maintains the convenience of usernames for existing contacts while prioritizing user privacy and security.
While the exact timeline for the public release of usernames and the accompanying PIN feature remains uncertain, WhatsApp’s development history suggests that users can anticipate their availability later this year.