In a world where cyberattacks, phishing, and account hijacking incidents are getting increasingly sophisticated, WhatsApp security update is ready to add an extra layer of security to its platform. If recent reports by WABetaInfo and other technology news outlets are to be believed, the messaging giant is working on introducing a feature titled “Strict Account Settings.” The new addition will serve as a one-tap security switch that’s aimed at making WhatsApp accounts more resistant to hacking attempts, impersonation, and targeted cyberattacks.
What is “Strict Account Settings”?
The “Strict Account Settings” option is an all-encompassing privacy mode that puts a number of existing and new security tools into one setting. Instead of enabling each of these privacy options one by one, soon users will be able to enable all the advanced protections by flipping a single toggle.
According to beta insights, enabling this mode automatically triggers:
- Two-Factor Authentication: This ensures that any user has to enter a unique PIN while registering their WhatsApp account on a new device.
- Security Alerts for Suspicious Activity: WhatsApp will notify users in the event that it detects unusual attempts to log in or potential hijacking of an account.
- Tighter Link and Media Handling: Automatic previewing of links and downloads of media is not allowed to prevent malicious websites from getting IP addresses or fingerprinting a device.
- Enhanced Spam Protection: It adds more stringent filters to block spam messages and unwanted calls from unknown numbers.
- Privacy Reinforcements: This may involve restrictions on exporting chats or media shared automatically to prevent misuse of sensitive content.
In all, WhatsApp’s “Strict Account Settings” will serve as an “advanced security mode for users at higher risk” — such as journalists, activists, and public figures — but it can also benefit anyone looking to maximize privacy.
Why WhatsApp Is Introducing It
WhatsApp has introduced many features to protect privacy over the years, such as disappearing messages, encrypted backups, and device verification. But all these features need to be actively switched on by users through several menus.
In a time when cyberattacks are becoming increasingly frequent, especially those leveraging social engineering tactics or fake login attempts, Meta wants to make strong account protection easier. The “Strict Account Settings” feature consolidates critical tools into a single command, ensuring even less-tech-savvy users can keep their accounts secure.
Reports say the feature is in the development stage in the beta version of WhatsApp for Android v2.25.33.x and iOS TestFlight builds. Although it has not been rolled out for all users, beta testers can find the early references to the feature in the app’s code.
WhatsApp security update: Benefits and Trade-Offs
The biggest advantage of this new feature is simplicity: it allows users to apply multiple protective layers without digging through complex menus. Activating it will make it much more difficult for an attacker to access your account, even with phishing or SIM-swap attempts.
However, the setting of “Strict Account Settings” might reduce convenience to some degree. Link previews and automatic media downloads may be disabled, hence users might experience a less smooth flow in chats. But for those who consider privacy and digital safety first, it is worth it.
How to Prepare for the Update
Although “Strict Account Settings” is still in testing, you can already take measures to make WhatsApp more secure:
- Enable Two-Step Verification: Go to Settings → Account → Two-step verification, then set a six-digit PIN.
- Avoid Sharing Verification Codes: WhatsApp will never ask for your one-time codes.
- Review Linked Devices: Log in to Linked Devices regularly and sign out of unknown sessions.
- Keep the App Up to Date: Most of the time, new security features arrive through app updates. Always run the latest version.
Final Thoughts
WhatsApp’s new “Strict Account Settings” comes at the right time after increasing cybersecurity threats. Putting the most crucial security features into one easy-to-reach setting will empower users, especially those who are vulnerable, to protect their data with ease. When officially implemented, this feature could mark a major milestone in WhatsApp‘s journey toward stronger, user-friendly privacy protection. Until then, staying cautious and proactive remains the best defense against online threats.
