GB WhatsApp Chat Lock: How to Lock and Unlock Chats
Chat lock lets you hide selected conversations behind a PIN, pattern or fingerprint. It is handy when other people sometimes use your phone. Menu names differ slightly between GB WhatsApp builds, but the process is broadly the same.
How to Lock a Chat
- Open GB WhatsApp and long-press the chat you want to protect.
- Tap the three-dot menu at the top and choose Lock (some builds label it “Lock chat”).
- Set a PIN or pattern, and add a recovery email or question if it is offered.
- Locked chats disappear from the main list and show up only after you authenticate.
How to Unlock a Chat
- Open the locked-chats section, usually by tapping the app title or a lock icon at the top.
- Enter your PIN or use your fingerprint.
- Long-press the chat and choose Unlock.
App Lock vs Chat Lock
App lock protects the whole app each time it opens. Chat lock protects only the conversations you pick. You can use both for stronger privacy.
Fixing Common Problems
- Forgot the PIN: use the recovery option if you set one. Without it, you may have to clear app data, which can remove local chats, so back up first.
- Fingerprint not working: confirm a fingerprint is enrolled in your phone settings and the app has permission to use it.
- Locked chats missing after an update: restore from your backup. See our backup guide.
Keep Expectations Realistic
A lock stops casual snooping, not a determined attacker, and it does not change the security limits of an unofficial app. Read the risks before storing sensitive material.
FAQ
Do locked chats still send notifications?
Usually you can hide notification content for locked chats in the lock settings.
Does the official WhatsApp have chat lock?
Newer official versions include a chat lock feature too, so compare before switching. See GB vs official.