Rakuten Viber, a cross-platform voice over IP and instant messaging software application owned by Japanese multinational company Rakuten, has announced the rollout of its newest feature, two-step verification.
The extra layer of security will allow its users to authenticate their accounts using a pin code and email, reports UNB.
Messaging on Viber is already end-to-end encrypted, eliminating third parties from accessing its data, and the disappearing message feature allows users further control over who sees their messages.
Users who choose to enable the two-step verification feature will create a six-digit PIN number and verify their email addresses.
To log in to Viber on a mobile device or desktop, the user will have to verify the account by providing their PIN code. If the code is forgotten, the verified email address will be used to help the user restore access to their account.
Also, having a PIN code will disable the ability to deactivate the account using Viber on a desktop. Anyone trying to deactivate a Viber account via desktop will need to use the PIN code.
Two-step verification protects against hackers hijacking users' accounts to send spam or access private information.
Reducing the number of non-verified accounts within the platform will not only reduce the number of spam messages on the platform but will also create a more efficient and stable application for users to communicate with loved ones worldwide.
"We are committed to providing a secure, end-to-end encrypted messaging app, and this new feature takes it one step further," said Amir Ish-Shalom, chief information officer for Rakuten Viber.