It has recently been revealed that WhatsApp is adding new biometric features and a number of other updates to its web and desktop application platforms, reports the Independent (via MSN).

WhatsApp have claimed that the upgrade will significantly enhance the security of the web and desktop platforms and will make people using these versions of the messaging app have to unlock via finger/facial scans.

Phone users have previously connected to other versions of the app by scanning a QR code and verifying it through the web platform.

The announcement comes amid significant uncertainty over how many users will continue to use WhatsApp after the company – who are developed by Facebook – recently announced upcoming privacy changes to to their terms and conditions.

It was recently reported that there are already a number of UAE users who are seriously concerned over the privacy of their data.

In their announcement WhatsApp stated: “This year we’re going to be adding a lot more functionality to our apps for Mac and Windows, as well as the Web.

“We want WhatsApp Web and desktop to be just as robust as our mobile apps so people can communicate privately and securely in whatever way is best for them, in their palms or on their computers.”

The biometric update will be turned on for anyone that has a compatible device with the right hardware such as a fingerprint or facial recognition technology.

The changes will be arriving over the coming weeks, WhatsApp confirmed.