Major Security Boost: WhatsApp Introduces Strict Account Settings to Protect At-Risk Users
Introduction
WhatsApp has announced a major upgrade to its privacy and safety framework with the launch of WhatsApp Strict Account Settings, a lockdown-style security feature designed to protect users who may be at risk of sophisticated cyberattacks. The new option aims to shield journalists, activists, public figures, and other vulnerable individuals from spyware, phishing attempts, and targeted digital surveillance.
According to WhatsApp’s parent company Meta, the feature adds an extra layer of defense on top of WhatsApp’s existing end-to-end encryption by limiting how unknown users can interact with an account. The rollout comes amid growing global concerns over cyber espionage and commercial spyware targeting high-profile individuals.
Table of Contents
What Are WhatsApp Strict Account Settings?
WhatsApp Strict Account Settings is an optional high-security mode that automatically locks multiple account controls to their most restrictive levels. Once enabled, the feature minimizes potential entry points commonly exploited in advanced cyberattacks.
Unlike regular privacy settings that users configure manually, WhatsApp Strict Account Settings apply a one-tap approach that prioritizes safety over convenience. Meta describes it as a “lockdown-style” option meant for rare but serious threat scenarios.
Key Security Features Included
When WhatsApp Strict Account Settings are activated, several protections are enabled simultaneously:
- Blocking media and attachments from unknown senders to prevent spyware delivery
- Disabling link previews, which can expose IP addresses and metadata
- Silencing calls and messages from numbers not saved in contacts
- Restricting group additions to trusted contacts only
- Locking profile visibility, including profile photo, “About,” and online status
- Automatically enabling two-step verification and security alerts
These controls are designed to close off common attack vectors used in surveillance campaigns and targeted hacking attempts.
Who Should Use This Feature?
WhatsApp has clarified that WhatsApp Strict Account Settings are not intended for everyone. The feature is mainly aimed at:
- Journalists and media professionals
- Human rights activists and dissidents
- Public officials and political figures
- Executives and high-profile business leaders
- Individuals who suspect targeted cyber surveillance
While regular users already benefit from end-to-end encryption, Meta acknowledges that certain people face higher-than-average digital risks and require stronger safeguards.
Why WhatsApp Introduced Strict Account Settings
The launch of WhatsApp Strict Account Settings follows years of documented spyware incidents, including attacks involving commercial surveillance tools used to compromise messaging apps.
Security researchers and advocacy groups have repeatedly warned that malicious actors often exploit messaging features like media downloads, calls, and link previews. By restricting these elements, WhatsApp aims to significantly reduce exposure to highly sophisticated cyber threats.
How to Enable WhatsApp Strict Account Settings
Users can activate the feature by following these steps:
- Open WhatsApp on your primary mobile device
- Go to Settings
- Tap Privacy
- Select Advanced
- Enable WhatsApp Strict Account Settings
Meta notes that the feature cannot be controlled via WhatsApp Web and will roll out gradually across regions in the coming weeks.
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Behind-the-Scenes Security Improvements
In addition to WhatsApp Strict Account Settings, the company has strengthened its internal security architecture by transitioning parts of its media-handling codebase to the Rust programming language. Rust is known for its memory-safety protections, which help prevent vulnerabilities commonly exploited by spyware.
This technical upgrade enhances protection for photos, videos, and documents shared through WhatsApp, reducing the likelihood of hidden exploits.
How It Compares to Apple and Google Security Modes
With this update, Meta joins other major tech companies offering high-risk protection modes. Apple introduced Lockdown Mode for iPhone users in 2022, while Google launched Advanced Protection for Android users in 2025.
WhatsApp Strict Account Settings follow a similar philosophy by limiting functionality to prioritize security, signaling an industry-wide shift toward specialized protection for targeted users.
Impact on User Experience
While WhatsApp Strict Account Settings provide enhanced protection, they also restrict everyday interactions such as receiving files from new contacts or joining groups freely. Meta advises normal users to carefully consider whether they need such extreme controls before enabling the feature.
For at-risk individuals, however, the trade-off is considered worthwhile in exchange for stronger digital safety.
Conclusion
The introduction of WhatsApp Strict Account Settings represents a major security milestone for the world’s most popular messaging platform. By offering a lockdown-style defense against sophisticated cyberattacks, WhatsApp is empowering vulnerable users with tools once limited to specialized security software.
As cyber threats continue to evolve, WhatsApp Strict Account Settings highlight Meta’s commitment to privacy, safety, and proactive protection for those who need it most.
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