WhatsApp rolls out end-to-end encrypted chat backup globally: How to enable

This feature will enable an optional additional layer of security to their iCloud and Google Drive accounts if users wish. “In launching this, we have completed the final step in providing a complete end-to-end encrypted messaging experience,” said the popular Facebook-owned messaging application.

“You can now protect your end-to-end encrypted backups with a password of your choice or a 64-digit encryption key that only you know. Neither WhatsApp nor your backup service provider will be able to read your backup or Will not be able to access the key needed to unlock it.”

Here’s how to create an end-to-end encrypted backup:

– Open Settings.

– Tap on Chats > Chat Backup > End-to-End Encrypted Backup.

– Tap Continue, then follow the prompts to generate a password or key.

– Tap Done, and wait for WhatsApp to create your end-to-end encrypted backup. You may need to connect to a power source.

Note: If you lose your WhatsApp chats and forget your password or key you will not be able to restore your backup. WhatsApp cannot reset your password or restore your backup for you.

How to turn off end-to-end encrypted backups:

– Open Settings.

– Tap Chats > Chat Backup > End-to-End Encrypted Backup.

– Tap Close.

-enter your password.

– Confirm that you want to turn off encrypted backup by tapping Turn Off.

This new feature will enable end-to-end encrypted backup, whether it is from sending and transiting to receiving and storing in the cloud.

“This feature will give people greater privacy and security for their digital interactions and is a responsibility we do not take lightly. Given this, we are gradually rolling it out to ensure a consistent and reliable user experience for people on iOS and Android across the world.”

WhatsApp had temporarily enabled the feature on the WhatsApp Beta for Android 2.21.15.5 update to protect backups from unauthorized access to Google Drive. It was later disabled in the 2.21.15.7 beta update for Android users. It was enabled again, first this time on iOS and later on Android.

Users have to be careful with the password or encryption key as WhatsApp will not be able to restore its chat history if it is lost. The password or 64-bit encryption key must be entered each time a user needs to restore their chat history.