Privacy has become more important than ever, especially when messaging apps are often accessed by friends, family members, or colleagues. WhatsApp offers a built-in Chat Lock feature that helps you secure specific conversations without locking the entire app. This guide explains how to set chat lock on WhatsApp step by step and how it works on Android and iPhone.
Also read: How to Search Messages on WhatsApp on Android and iPhone
What Is Chat Lock on WhatsApp
Chat Lock is a WhatsApp feature that allows you to lock individual chats using your phone’s security method. Locked chats are moved to a separate folder and can only be opened using fingerprint, Face ID, or device passcode. This keeps sensitive conversations hidden and protected.
Why You Should Use Chat Lock
Chat Lock is useful in many situations:
- Keeps personal chats private even if someone opens your WhatsApp
- Adds extra security without third-party apps
- Works with biometric security for fast access
- Prevents message previews from appearing on the main chat screen
If you value privacy, this feature is worth enabling.
How to Set Chat Lock on WhatsApp on Android
Follow these steps to lock a chat on Android:
- Open WhatsApp on your phone
- Open the chat you want to lock
- Tap the contact or group name at the top
- Select the Chat Lock option
- Turn on Lock this chat
- Confirm using fingerprint or phone lock
Once enabled, the chat will disappear from the main chat list and move to the Locked Chats section.
Where to Find Locked Chats on Android
- Pull down on the WhatsApp chat list
- Tap on Locked Chats
- Unlock using fingerprint or device security
How to Set Chat Lock on WhatsApp on iPhone
On iPhone, the steps are slightly different but simple:
- Open WhatsApp
- Open the chat you want to protect
- Tap the contact or group name
- Tap Chat Lock
- Enable Lock this chat
- Authenticate using Face ID, Touch ID, or passcode
After this, the chat will move to the Locked Chats folder.
Accessing Locked Chats on iPhone
- Pull down on the chat list
- Tap Locked Chats
- Unlock using Face ID or passcode
How Chat Lock Improves Privacy
Chat Lock adds an extra privacy layer without affecting normal WhatsApp usage. Some key privacy benefits include:
- Locked chats do not show message previews
- Notifications hide message content
- Chats remain hidden until unlocked
- No need to install external apps
This makes Chat Lock safer than many third-party solutions.
Things to Know Before Using Chat Lock
- Chat Lock works only on updated WhatsApp versions
- Backups do not remove chat locks
- You must remember your phone’s lock method
- Locked chats can still receive messages
If you change your phone security, WhatsApp chat lock settings may also update.
Common Problems and Fixes
Chat Lock option not showing
Update WhatsApp from the Play Store or App Store.
Fingerprint or Face ID not working
Check device security settings and re-enable biometrics.
Locked chats disappeared
Pull down the chat list to reveal the Locked Chats folder.
Also read: How to Secure Your WhatsApp Account From Hackers – A Complete Guide
Final Thoughts
Chat Lock on WhatsApp is a simple but powerful feature for protecting private conversations. It uses your phone’s built-in security and keeps important chats away from prying eyes. Whether you use WhatsApp for personal or professional communication, enabling chat lock is a smart move to improve privacy without complicating your experience.
If you care about keeping your messages secure, setting up chat lock should be one of the first privacy settings you enable on WhatsApp.