WhatsApp Finally Rolls Out Official Chat Lock for Desktop – WhatsApp Chat Lock for Desktop: Here How to use it
After introducing Chat Lock on mobile devices in 2023, WhatsApp has now officially launched the Chat Lock feature for its Web and Desktop versions in 2025. This update adds an additional layer of security and privacy, especially for users who access WhatsApp on shared or work computers.
Here’s a detailed look at what the feature offers, how to use it, and everything you need to know about locking chats on your desktop.
What Is WhatsApp Chat Lock for Desktop?
WhatsApp Chat Lock for Desktop is a new privacy feature that allows users to lock individual chats behind a secure screen on WhatsApp Web and the WhatsApp Desktop app (Windows/macOS). Once locked, a chat becomes invisible from the main chat list and can only be accessed by authenticating through a device password, fingerprint, or Face ID, depending on your system settings.
Why Is This Feature Important?
Until now, Chat Lock was only available on Android and iOS devices. Users who accessed WhatsApp Web or Desktop lacked this privacy shield, making it risky for people using public or shared computers. The desktop version often displayed all chats openly after login. This update solves that by giving users the ability to hide sensitive or personal conversations—even on a big screen.
Feature Availability: Which Versions Support Chat Lock?
As of August 2025, the Chat Lock feature is available on the following platforms:
WhatsApp Desktop app (v2.2427.10 and above)
WhatsApp Web via Google Chrome, Edge, or Safari
Supported on Windows 10/11 and macOS (M1 & Intel)
You must also have two-step verification enabled and be logged into the same WhatsApp account already using Chat Lock on mobile to activate it on desktop.
How to Enable Chat Lock on WhatsApp Web/Desktop: Step-by-Step Guide
Here’s a simple guide to help you lock individual chats on WhatsApp Desktop:
Step 1: Update WhatsApp Desktop/Web
Ensure your WhatsApp Desktop app is updated to the latest version.
If using WhatsApp Web, make sure your browser is up to date.
Step 2: Link with Your Mobile
Open WhatsApp on your phone.
Navigate to Settings > Linked Devices.
Use your phone to scan the QR code shown on your computer screen to log in.
Step 3: Access Chat Settings
Open any individual or group chat that you want to lock.
Click on the chat name at the top to access the chat info panel.
Step 4: Enable Chat Lock
Scroll down and select “Chat Lock”.
Click on “Lock this Chat”.
Authenticate using your system’s biometrics, PIN, or password.
Step 5: Access Locked Chats
To view locked chats, click on the padlock icon in the left panel (above the chat list).
Authenticate again to view the list of locked chats.
Locked chats will disappear from the main chat list and can only be accessed via the lock screen.
How Does Chat Lock Work on Desktop?
Lock Option Placement: Found under the contact or group info section in WhatsApp Web/Desktop.
Authentication Method: Uses the device password (like your PC password or fingerprint if supported) instead of a phone-based biometric system.
Locked Chats Folder: Chats that are locked are moved into a “Locked Chats” folder, which is hidden by default.
Visibility Control: You must authenticate (using your computer’s credentials) to view or open the “Locked Chats” folder.
Notifications: No chat preview or sender name will be shown in desktop notifications for locked chats.
This makes it highly secure even if you step away from your system without logging out.
What Happens When a Chat Is Locked?
Hidden From View: The chat disappears from your general conversation list.
Notifications Are Masked: Message previews are hidden.
Requires Authentication: Accessing the chat needs re-authentication.
Syncs Across Devices: If you unlock it on mobile, it reflects on desktop and vice versa.
No Media Auto-Save: Media from locked chats isn’t auto-saved to the gallery.
Screenshots: Visual Guide to Locking Chats on Desktop
You may include these (you can capture while using the feature live):
1. Main Chat View with the new padlock icon
2. Chat Info Panel showing “Lock this Chat” option
3. Authentication Popup (Windows Hello or Mac Touch ID)
4. Locked Chat List Panel
How to Unlock or Remove Lock from a Chat
If you no longer want a chat locked:
1. Go to the Locked Chats section.
2. Open the chat using authentication.
3. Click on the chat name > Chat Lock.
4. Toggle off “Lock this Chat” and authenticate again.
The chat will reappear in your normal chat list.
Limitations and Notes
Group Chats Can Be Locked: Yes, but only by the admin.
Calls Are Not Hidden: Audio/video calls from locked chats still appear.
Only Visible to You: Other devices or users don’t see the locked chats unless logged in as you.
WhatsApp Business Support: Not yet available; expected in a future update.
Why This Matters in India
With over 500 million users, India is WhatsApp’s largest user base. Chat Lock for Desktop is especially useful for:
Students using college library PCs
Professionals using office laptops
People sharing laptops with family or roommates
This update empowers users to maintain privacy even on large screens.
Comparison with Mobile Chat Lock
Authentication:
Mobile: Uses biometrics (Fingerprint/Face ID).
Desktop: Uses system password or fingerprint (if available on PC/laptop).
Access to Locked Chats:
Mobile: Available inside a separate folder in the app.
Desktop: Hidden folder; must authenticate every time to view.
Notifications:
Both mobile and desktop hide message previews and sender names for locked chats.
Setup Location:
Mobile: Go to Chat Settings > Privacy > Chat Lock.
Desktop: Go to Chat Info > Lock Chat.
Device Sync:
Mobile: Locked chats sync across devices.
Desktop: Lock works only on the specificdesktop where it is enabled.
Tips for Better Security with WhatsApp Desktop
1. Enable Two-Step Verification
2. Always Lock Your PC when stepping away
3. Use Private Mode Browsers for WhatsApp Web
4. Don’t stay logged in on public systems
A Long-Awaited Privacy Boost
WhatsApp’s decision to bring Chat Lock to desktop is a big leap in privacy. As we increasingly use multiple devices, features like these make it easier to maintain boundaries and control who sees what. Whether you’re working from a café, using a friend’s laptop, or just want to hide chats from prying eyes, this feature is a welcome update.
Stay updated and always check for the latest WhatsApp version to unlock these features. You can also visit the official website of WhatsApp help center: https://faq.whatsapp.com/
FAQs About WhatsApp Desktop Chat Lock
Q1: Is Chat Lock available on WhatsApp Business?
Currently, it’s not available on the Business app. But Meta has announced plans to roll it out soon.
Q2: Can I use Chat Lock on multiple desktops?
Yes, as long as the desktop is linked to your mobile device and updated.
Q3: Can locked chats be searched?
No. Locked chats are excluded from desktop search results for added privacy.
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