Meta-owned messaging giant WhatsApp is ramping up its safety measures with a new feature in the pipeline. Traditionally, WhatsApp users have logged in using their mobile phone numbers. However, the platform is now testing a feature that enables users to link their email addresses with their WhatsApp accounts. This move follows recent additions to the app’s security arsenal, including features like Chat Lock and Device Verification.
Enhanced Verification Layer
The option to link an email address to a WhatsApp account adds an extra layer of verification to the app. It allows users to authenticate their accounts using their email addresses in addition to their mobile phone numbers, which was the sole login method until now.
This feature is particularly beneficial in situations where cellular network coverage is poor or unavailable, offering users an alternative means of authentication.
How to Link Your Email with WhatsApp
WhatsApp has now rolled out the functionality for users to link their email addresses with their WhatsApp accounts. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to do it:
- Open WhatsApp on your phone and tap on your profile picture to access settings.
- Navigate to “Account” and then select “Email address.”
- Enter your email address and tap “Next.”
- Input the six-digit OTP (One-Time Password) received on your email and confirm.
Following these steps will successfully link your email with your WhatsApp account. Subsequently, when signing in to your WhatsApp account, you’ll have the option to receive the six-digit OTP on your email in addition to your phone number.
It’s worth noting that you can link any email address to your account; it doesn’t necessarily have to be the one used for data backup. However, this feature does not replace the primary login method, which remains your phone number.
This update signifies WhatsApp’s ongoing commitment to bolstering user security and providing alternative authentication methods for its diverse user base.
