WhatsApp has announced a new security layer, the WhatsApp Strict Account Settings, aimed at protecting users who are at a high risk of cyberattacks. This feature introduces an advanced level of protection beyond the platform’s standard security measures, acting as a digital shield against sophisticated threats.

What are WhatsApp Strict Account Settings?

According to the official announcement from WhatsApp, this new feature is part of its ongoing mission to protect user privacy. While the platform already provides a high standard of security with default end-to-end encryption, some users, such as journalists, activists, and public figures, face a higher risk of complex, targeted cyberattacks. This is precisely where the “Strict Account Settings” feature comes into play.

Essentially, this feature is an optional protection layer that locks certain account settings at their most restrictive and secure level. When enabled, your account becomes more resilient against potential external threats. Therefore, while it might introduce some functional limitations for an average user, it offers invaluable protection for high-risk individuals.

How Does This New Security Shield Work?

When you enable Strict Account Settings, some of WhatsApp’s functions are intentionally limited. The most notable of these restrictions is the measure taken against potentially dangerous content from people you don’t know. For example, file attachments and media content from users not in your contact list are automatically blocked. This creates a proactive defense mechanism against phishing attacks or spyware infection attempts.

WhatsApp has stated that the feature will be rolled out to all users in the coming weeks. Users who wish to activate the feature can follow these steps:

• Open WhatsApp and go to the Settings menu.
• Tap on the Privacy tab.
• Find the Advanced option on the screen that opens.
• From here, you can activate the “Strict Account Settings” option.

Additionally, the company mentioned another step it has taken to enhance infrastructure security. To ensure that photos, videos, and messages remain safer from threats like spyware, they have started using a modern programming language called Rust in their systems. This is a significant technical development that increases the overall security and stability of the application.

So, what are your thoughts on WhatsApp’s new Strict Account Settings feature? Share your opinions with us in the comments!