With over 2 billion monthly active users, WhatsApp is one of the top choices for facilitating communication. People who use the platform's web client might know about a recently released security safeguard called Code Verify.

However, if you're not sure what all the fuss is about, we'll discuss how it works and how you can use it.

What Is Code Verify?

Code Verify is a browser extension to check the code for the WhatsApp web version you use. It looks for evidence of code tampering or anything that could make you have an unusual experience with the app.

How Does Code Verify for WhatsApp Work?

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Code Verify works courtesy of a Cloudflare partnership. More specifically, that company performs an independent, third-party, and transparent check on the code served to a person during their WhatsApp web experience.

The process compares the code associated with the user’s app version with code verified as authentic by WhatsApp. If the two don’t match, the Code Verify browser extension notifies users of possible tampering.

Code Verify runs automatically and gives real-time alerts. It does not log data or share information with WhatsApp. Similarly, using the extension does not allow anyone at the company to read your messages.

WhatsApp had more than 2 billion worldwide users in 2020. In a blog post published by Meta, WhatsApp’s parent company mentioned an increase in people accessing WhatsApp through desktop browsers rather than mobile devices.

It pointed out how many of the security precautions mobile app stores offer don’t extend to browsers. For example, Google and Apple implement various checks to uphold the legitimacy and safety of content sold through official app stores. Browser-based apps don’t usually get such vetting.

Is This Different From the WhatsApp Verify Security Code Feature?

Code Verify isn’t the first example of WhatsApp taking measures to strengthen security. Mobile app users likely know about the process they must go through to confirm their account with security codes.

When someone first creates an account, they receive a six-digit string of numbers from a verification code generator via text message. Once they get the code, the next step is to enter it on the verification screen in the WhatsApp mobile app.

However, Code Verify has no connection to this process. It is unique to people using the web version of WhatsApp.

When Do You Receive a Verification Code From WhatsApp?

person holding iPhone with a black case with a WhatsApp & Twitter notification

WhatsApp has a numerical code connected to two-step verification. It’s different from the code you get during registration. Activating two-step verification means you choose a PIN to enter that allows you to access your WhatsApp account. It’s optional but could be a wise feature to set up, especially if you worry about your phone getting lost or stolen.

First-time users of WhatsApp’s web version must also scan a QR verification code to sync phone and web content:

  • First, launch WhatsApp on your phone while keeping the web version open.
  • Then, depending on whether you use iOS or Android, tap the Menu or Settings button.
  • Next, select Linked Devices. Doing that will make a QR code appear on the computer screen to scan with your phone.

Unlike WhatsApp's verification system, Code Verify keeps web users safer by protecting them from potential fake versions and alerting them to code-altering malware. It’s an example of how verification codes are only one of many ways to stay safe while using your favorite apps.

How to Use Code Verify With WhatsApp Web

Using Code Verify for WhatsApp

Usability professionals believe two major parts of helping people stay safe online involve ensuring the associated features are user-friendly enough and that they match the privacy expectations average consumers have.

Fortunately, Code Verify is pretty straightforward. If you’re ready to use it, follow these easy steps:

  1. Start by downloading and installing the Code Verify browser extension for Google Chrome, Firefox, or Microsoft Edge.
  2. Pin the extension to your toolbar for easy viewing. The way to do that varies depending on your chosen browser.
  3. Learn the extension’s colors and symbols. You’ll see a green checkmark if Code Verify fully validated the code and did not identify any issues. However, an orange circle with a question mark or a red icon with an exclamation point indicates matters to address. You can click on the extension to learn more about the problem.

Code Verify Ensures a Safer WhatsApp Web Experience

Now that you know how Code Verify works, you’re in a great position to decide whether to use it or not. Since it runs in the background and gives real-time feedback, it’s a simple way to increase your protection against internet threats.