Access to WhatsApp’s iOS app can now be protected using your phone’s biometric security. Depending on your iPhone model, you’ll get the option of using either Face ID or Touch ID to restrict access to the software. The feature was made available with version 2.19.20 of WhatsApp, it can be enabled from the app’s Privacy menu in Account Settings.

Even though you cannot secure your messages on a per chat basis, the new layer of biometric security should give the contents of your messages more protection even if your phone itself is already unlocked. You’ll want to be careful about your notification settings if you choose to secure your app, though, specifically message previews. If you have them turned on then you’ll be able to both see and reply to any messages without having to unlock the app. You’ll also be able to respond to any WhatsApp calls without needing to unlock the app first.

Currently the feature is only available within the iOS  version of the app but the Android release is on its way as well.