WhatsApp has reportedly started testing a new security feature that could block users from logging into their accounts if their phone is running an older version of Android or iOS.
According to a new report, the feature is being rolled out via a server-side update, meaning users don't need to install a specific version of the app to get it. The feature appears to be rolling out to both Android and iPhone devices.
If WhatsApp determines that the phone's operating system is too old, the user may be faced with a screen that prevents them from logging into their account. At the same time, the app instructs the user to open "Settings" on the phone and install the latest available system update.
After updating the operating system, the user can try to log in to WhatsApp again and, if the device meets the requirements, the login should work normally. The new screen also shows how to check the current version of Android or iOS. According to the report, users will not be able to bypass this requirement.
The main reason is believed to be security. Older versions of operating systems may contain known vulnerabilities that can be exploited by attackers to install malicious programs.
Although WhatsApp uses end-to-end encryption for messages and calls, this does not necessarily protect the user if their device is compromised. For example, a user might receive a link from a trusted contact that installs malware on their phone.
However, it is not yet known which versions of Android and iOS will be affected by this measure. WhatsApp has not officially announced for which devices or versions of the operating system the feature will be activated.
Therefore, if the user sees a notification requesting an operating system update before logging into WhatsApp, this may be part of the platform's new security measures.
