WhatsApp Testing ‘Strict Account Settings’ to Shield High-Risk Users
WhatsApp is developing a new security feature called “Strict Account Settings” designed to protect users at higher risk of cyber attacks and hacking attempts.
Key Takeaways
- New feature found in iOS beta version
- Automatically applies multiple privacy protections
- Specifically designed for high-risk users like journalists and activists
- No official release date announced yet
Feature Discovered in Latest iOS Beta
According to WABetaInfo, the latest WhatsApp beta for iOS includes a new “Strict account settings” option located under Privacy > Advanced. This feature would allow users to activate what WhatsApp describes as a “set of extreme protections” when they believe they might be targeted by malicious actors.
How Strict Mode Protects Users
When enabled, the mode automatically applies several security restrictions including:
- Blocking media and attachments from unknown senders
- Limiting who can call or message the user
- Locking certain settings to prevent unauthorized changes
- Silencing unknown callers and restricting group invites
- Enabling two-step verification automatically
WhatsApp notes that enabling this feature may reduce call and message quality, but provides comprehensive protection.
Additional Automatic Protections
Beyond the visible settings, WABetaInfo reports that Strict mode will also automatically disable link previews, alert users to encryption code changes, and hide personal information from unknown numbers. While most of these protections are already available individually in WhatsApp’s settings, the new mode simplifies security by applying all protections simultaneously.
Targeted Protection for Vulnerable Users
This feature could be particularly valuable for journalists, activists, public figures, and other individuals who face higher risks of digital threats and targeted attacks.
Availability Timeline
There is currently no official release date for Strict Account Settings. As with other beta developments, it may take some time before the feature becomes available to all users across both iOS and Android platforms.
The introduction of this feature represents WhatsApp’s continued effort to enhance user security amid growing concerns about phishing, account takeovers, and other forms of online exploitation.
