WhatsApp adds lockdown-style protection with Strict Account Settings

WhatsApp has announced a new security-focused feature aimed at strengthening account protection against advanced cyber threats. Called Strict Account Settings, the feature introduces tighter controls designed to reduce exposure to suspicious activity, especially for users who may be at higher risk of targeted attacks.

What Strict Account Settings changes on WhatsApp

Strict Account Settings is a lockdown-style protection layer that pushes WhatsApp accounts to their most restrictive privacy and security configuration. The feature is primarily designed for people such as journalists, activists, or public figures, though it is available to anyone who feels they need additional safeguards.

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Once enabled, the setting limits how unknown users can interact with an account. Attachments and media from unknown senders are blocked by default, while calls from numbers outside a user’s contacts are automatically silenced. Link previews are also disabled, reducing the risk of malicious links being exploited.

The feature further strengthens account security by forcing two-step verification to remain active and locking security notifications so they cannot be turned off. Profile visibility is also restricted, meaning details such as last seen, online status, profile photo, About information, and profile links are visible only to contacts or a pre-selected list. Group additions are similarly restricted, preventing unknown users from adding someone to group chats without approval.

WhatsApp says the feature works alongside its default end-to-end encryption and encourages users to enable encrypted backups for additional protection. The company notes that while this mode increases security, it may limit certain everyday functions, which is why it is optional.

How to enable or disable Strict Account Settings

Step 1: Open WhatsApp on your primary phone and go to Settings.
Step 2: Tap Privacy, then select Advanced, where Strict Account Settings can be turned on.

To turn the feature off, users need to follow the same path and disable Strict Account Settings from the Advanced menu. The option is not available on WhatsApp Web and must be managed from the main device.

Strict Account Settings is rolling out globally in phases over the coming weeks.

ALSO READ: WhatsApp now lets users secure backups using fingerprint or Face ID

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