The famous messaging app WhatsApp has received a security feature, albeit optional, especially for users who often face targeted high-risk cyber attacks.
The new security feature is called Strict Account Settings, which provides an extra layer of protection by limiting how unknown contacts can interact with you.
That puts WhatsApp in competition with other major tech platforms that offer “lockdown-style” security options for individuals seeking protection over convenience.
What is WhatsApp’s Strict Account Settings feature?
Strict Account Settings is a simple one-click toggle located in WhatsApp’s Settings. Once enabled, it enables multiple defensive measures at the same time to significantly reduce the possibility of malicious content reaching the user.
According to WhatsApp, this feature addresses serious threats, including spyware campaigns and advanced surveillance attacks.
In what ways can strict account settings protect you from WhatsApp scams?
When enabled, strict account settings will:
- Block media and file attachments from unknown senders.
- Disable link previews, which prevents potentially harmful thumbnails from loading.
- Silence calls from unknown contacts, stopping harassment and attack attempts before they can happen.
These interaction points have previously been exploited by attackers as entry vectors, particularly in highly targeted hacking campaigns.
Although WhatsApp messages are already protected by end-to-end encryption, sometimes encryption alone may not be sufficient to block all types of attacks.
Social engineering, spyware delivery, and zero-click exploits often rely on user interactions with calls, links, or attachments.
The Meta-owned platform designed this mode for professionals, especially journalists, activists and public figures who may be targeted because of their visibility or work.
