Renowned messaging app WhatsApp has received a security feature, albeit an optional one, especially for users who often face targeted and high-risk cyberattacks.
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.
This puts WhatsApp in competition with other major tech platforms that offer “lockdown-style” security options for people looking for protection over convenience.
What is the WhatsApp Strict Account Settings feature?
Strict account settings are a simple one-click change located within WhatsApp settings. Once activated, it allows 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.
How can strict account settings protect you from WhatsApp scams?
Once enabled, strict account settings:
- Block media and attachments from unknown senders.
- Disable link previews, preventing potentially harmful thumbnails from loading.
- Silence calls from unknown contacts, thus stopping harassment and attack attempts before they 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 enough to block all types of attacks.
Social engineering, spyware delivery, and no-click exploits often depend on user interactions with calls, links, or attachments.
The Meta-owned platform has designed this modality for professionals, particularly journalists, activists and public figures, who may be attacked for their visibility or work.
