WhatsApp has been working on usernames for a while now, a feature that would allow users to choose their own unique username. This would allow you to chat without sharing your phone number – a sort of digital cloak for the privacy-conscious.

But WhatsApp doesn’t stop at usernames. The app may also introduce a PIN system to start conversations. Imagine having a secret code that others need to know before they can sneak into your chats.

While still in development, WABetaInfo found references to PIN codes when setting usernames in WhatsApp's Android version 2.24.18.1

These potential features are part of WhatsApp's ongoing efforts to improve user safety. By giving you more control over who can contact you, the app is putting privacy first.