WhatsApp users are still susceptible to a major security loophole which could mean hackers gaining access to messages, a tech expert has warned.
Chats on the messaging platform are end-to-end encrypted but could be exposed when backed up via iCloud or Google Drive by cyber thieves.
As well as the potential risk of hackers, it is also possible for law enforcement to request access to messages and media files if they're backed up on the cloud.
According to WABetaInfo, WhatsApp is working on a way to independently encrypt user chats before they reach the cloud.
Have you been a victim of WhatsApp hackers? Let us know at webnews@mirror.co.uk
In a Twitter post, it said: "WhatsApp is finally enabling another important feature: the possibility to encrypt your backups!
"What does it mean? Encrypting your backups protect your chat history and media from unauthorized access."
The feature being trialled on the beta version of the Android app, with users who opt in to get chat history and anything else shared back up securely.
But it's understood such a feature will see users given a 64-digit recovery key which if lost may mean they are locked out indefinitely.
In another tweet today WABetaInfo also said WhasApp is "working to bring end-to-end encrypted local backups on WhatsApp beta for Android".
WhatsApp can create local backups of messages in an Android's internal storage everyday but these backups could be more vulnerable to hackers.
The beta version of the app can be downloaded in Google Play.
You need to select 'become a beta tester' and then tap to join, then simply wait for the updated version to be released.
Downloading WhatsApp beta on iOS is not recommended by tech experts but can be downloaded on a computer through Google Play.
