WhatsApp has just launched a powerful new feature called Strict Account Settings designed to give users an extra layer of protection against cyber threats and unwanted interactions. This new security option is especially useful for people who believe they could be targeted by sophisticated attacks — like journalists, public figures, or anyone dealing with sensitive information.
The feature recently began rolling out globally in phases and can be enabled from within the app’s Privacy settings under an “Advanced” section.
What Are Strict Account Settings?
Strict Account Settings is a lockdown-style security mode that restricts various parts of your WhatsApp experience to make it harder for strangers, bots, or attackers to contact you or view personal information. When turned on, this setting automatically applies the most restrictive privacy options available on WhatsApp.
Here’s how it strengthens your account:
- Blocks media and attachments from people not in your contacts list, preventing unknown users from sending potentially harmful files.
- Silences calls and messages from unknown contacts so you won’t be disturbed unexpectedly.
- Disables link previews in chats with non-contacts, which can reduce the risk of malicious tracking.
- Limits profile visibility — elements like your profile photo, About info, last seen and online status are only shown to contacts you’ve saved.
- Restricts group invites, so only saved contacts can add you to chats, helping prevent unwanted group additions.
- Keeps two-step verification active and locks security notifications so they cannot be easily turned off.
This makes it harder for attackers to exploit common entry points or gather useful information about your account.
Who Should Use It?
WhatsApp itself says this mode is especially helpful for users who may be at higher risk of sophisticated cyberattacks — for example:
- Journalists or media professionals
- Politicians or public officials
- Activists or human rights defenders
- Anyone handling sensitive data
For most regular users, WhatsApp’s default protections (including end-to-end encryption) are strong and usually sufficient. But turning on Strict Account Settings gives “extreme safeguards” on top of WhatsApp’s standard security.
How to Enable Strict Account Settings
Turning on this feature is simple, but must be done from your primary phone device (it cannot be activated from WhatsApp Web or desktop).
Here’s how to do it:
- Update WhatsApp to the latest version from the App Store or Google Play.
- Open WhatsApp and go to Settings.
- Tap Privacy.
- Scroll down and select Advanced.
- Tap Strict Account Settings and enable it.
Once activated, your settings will switch to the most restrictive options designed for maximum security.
What You Should Know Before Turning It On
- This setting may limit some everyday functions — for example, media and calls from unknown contacts will no longer reach you normally.
- Most users won’t need this level of security unless you think you may be targeted.
- The feature is rolling out gradually, so it might take some time before it appears in your app.
Why WhatsApp Is Doing This
WhatsApp continues to strengthen its security after years of focusing on end-to-end encryption, which already protects chats from being read by anyone other than the people in the conversation. But some threats today — like spyware or targeted hacking campaigns — require even stronger protections, which is where Strict Account Settings comes in.
This new layer of defense puts WhatsApp alongside other major tech companies that offer enhanced security options, such as Apple’s Lockdown Mode and Google’s Advanced Protection mode.
Final Thoughts
Strict Account Settings is one of WhatsApp’s most comprehensive security measures yet. It’s not for everyone, but it’s a valuable tool for people who need extra protection against sophisticated cyber threats. If your communication privacy matters a lot, this feature gives you another way to stay safer while using WhatsApp.
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