WhatsApp might finally support traditional passwords in addition to 2FA – 9to5Google

WhatsApp has historically relied on OTP codes for user sign-ins, though an upcoming update appears to contain an option to add a traditional password for added security. Better late than never! It’s odd to think that, for as long as WhatsApp has been around, it has never required users to create and use a traditional alphanumeric password to log in. The long-standing method has made use of one-time passwords sent via SMS. With that code, logging in has been relatively painless. According to WABetaInfo , a new beta version of the app – Android 2.26.7.8 – the app will offer the ability to use passwords in addition to two-factor authentication. It doesn’t appear as if WhatsApp plans to require a password to operate normally. via WABetaInfo The feature is reportedly being added to deter SIM swapping. In those cases, users can “steal” OTP codes and log in with little resistance. Since all one needs is the phone number and OTP, WhatsApp accounts are open to anyone with SMS access. The additional 6-digit passcode WhatsApp added some time ago was intended to address this issue, but it remains to be seen whether it will have a significant effect. With an added password
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