WhatsApp has launched a new privacy and security feature called Strict Account Settings, designed to better protect users from scams, cyberattacks, and account takeover attempts.
The update arrives as messaging apps increasingly become targets for fraudsters who exploit unsuspecting users through phishing links, scam calls, and malicious file sharing. With this new feature, WhatsApp aims to make account protection easier by allowing users to activate stronger security controls with a single switch.
Strict Account Settings is an optional privacy mode that automatically applies several high-security protections at once. Instead of adjusting multiple settings manually, users can enable stricter controls instantly.
The feature focuses on reducing interactions with unknown contacts and limiting common scam entry points that attackers use to reach users.
Once activated, Strict Account Settings adjusts how your account interacts with unknown users and suspicious activity. Key protections include:
- Media and attachments from unknown contacts are blocked to reduce malware risks.
- Calls from unsaved numbers are silenced to prevent scam or harassment calls.
- Link previews are disabled to help users avoid deceptive URLs.
- Message flooding from unknown accounts is limited to reduce spam.
- Two-step verification is automatically enforced, adding an extra layer of login protection.
- Profile details such as profile photo, About info, and Last Seen become visible only to saved contacts.
- Group invitations from unknown users are restricted, preventing unwanted group additions.
Online scams continue to grow globally, with messaging platforms frequently used to trick users into sharing personal details or verification codes. While WhatsApp already offers end-to-end encryption, encryption alone cannot stop social engineering scams or phishing attempts.
Strict Account Settings addresses this gap by proactively limiting how attackers can contact users in the first place. It also simplifies security by removing the need for users to understand multiple privacy controls.
WhatsApp notes that the feature is particularly useful for people who may face higher risks, such as journalists, public figures, business owners, and users managing sensitive information. However, everyday users can benefit just as much.
How to Turn It On
To enable Strict Account Settings:
- Open WhatsApp and ensure your app is updated.
- Go to Settings.
- Tap Privacy.
- Open Advanced settings.
- Turn on Strict Account Settings.
The feature is rolling out gradually, so some users may see it before others.
For most users, enabling Strict Account Settings simply means fewer interruptions from unknown contacts and better protection against scams. The only trade-off may be reduced convenience when interacting with new contacts, but many users may find the added security worth it.
As messaging scams continue to evolve, WhatsApp’s latest update represents a move toward making stronger privacy protection easier and more accessible to everyone.