Instant messaging application WhatsApp has rolled out a new extension for adding extra security to its web app.
As per GSM Arena, the extension is called Code Verify and its sole purpose is to ensure the web version of WhatsApp is secure enough and the end-to-end encryption has not been compromised.
The Code Verify has been launched by WhatsApp in partnership with Cloudflare.
“Code Verify is also being open services so that other messaging sources can enable the people to verify the code they are being served on the web is the same that everyone else is using,” the company said.
WhatsApp said that the web app is naturally less resilient against attacks. So the Code Verify ensures the same level of security as a native app on Windows, iOS or Android.
How to use Code Verify
Meta Open Source offers the web extension for Google Chrome, Microsoft Edge, and Mozilla Firefox.
The extension doesn’t log any data, metadata, or user data, and it does not share any information with WhatsApp. It also does not read or access the messages you send or receive.
“Neither WhatsApp nor Meta will know if someone has downloaded the Code Verify plugin,” according to Meta. The Code Verify addon, in particular, is unable to submit messages or conversations between two users to Cloudflare.
When you access WhatsApp Web after installing the extension on your browser, it will instantly start functioning. The toolbar on the web browser allows users to view the results.
The Code Verify symbol will become green if the WhatsApp Web code has been thoroughly validated. If you see an orange icon, it implies you need to reload your page or that Code Verify is being interfered with by another browser extension. If you notice a red icon, it signifies “the WhatsApp Web code you’re being provided may have a potential security risk.”
Code Verify will run immediately, and if the WhatsApp Web code is fully validated, the Code Verify icon in the browser will appear green.
If the Code Verify icon appears orange, it means that you need to refresh your page or another browser extension is interfering with Code Verify. In this instance, Code Verify will recommend that you pause your other browser extensions.
If the Code Verify icon appears red, it will indicate that there is a possible security issue with the WhatsApp Web code you’re being served.