We all have those conversations we’d rather keep private. WhatsApp offers a “Lock Chat” feature, but what if you want to take that privacy a step further? This guide will show you how to completely hide a WhatsApp chat, ensuring maximum discretion.
The Problem:
While the “Lock Chat” feature adds an extra layer of security, it’s not foolproof. If someone gains access to your phone, they’ll still see that a particular chat is locked, raising suspicion.
The Solution: The “Hide Locked Chats” Feature
WhatsApp offers a powerful solution: the ability to completely hide locked chats from your main chat list. Here’s how it works:
- Lock the Chat:
- Select the chat you want to hide.
- Tap the three vertical dots in the top right corner.
- Select “Lock Chat” and confirm using your fingerprint or PIN.
- Activate “Hide Locked Chats”:
- Open the locked chat.
- Tap the three vertical dots in the top right corner and select “Chat Lock Settings.”
- Create a unique “Secret Code” (an emoji, number, or short word). Make sure this is something you can remember.
- Once you’ve set up your secret code and confirmed it, toggle on “Hide Locked Chats” and select “Use my Secret Code.”
Access Hidden Chats
In case you’re wondering, won’t message(s) from this chat appear as notification(s)? The answer is, No. Since the chat is hidden, you’ll have to check for messages manually. To view hidden chats, go to the WhatsApp search bar and enter your secret code. Reply to messages, then close the chat to return it to hidden mode.
“What if I no longer want to use this feature?” Follow the same process you used to reveal the hidden chat. Open the chat, tap the three vertical dots, select “Chat Lock Settings,” and turn off “Hide Locked Chats.” To completely unlock the chat, go to the locked chat, tap the three vertical dots, and select “Unlock Chat.”
