WhatsApp Launches Advanced Protection Mode with ‘Strict Account Settings’ Feature
News Synopsis
WhatsApp has rolled out a powerful new security feature called “Strict Account Settings”, designed to protect users from rare but highly sophisticated cyberattacks. The one-tap feature activates multiple advanced security defences at once, positioning WhatsApp alongside Apple and Google in offering enhanced digital protection for high-risk users.
WhatsApp Rolls Out ‘Strict Account Settings’ for Advanced Security
WhatsApp has introduced a new security layer for its billions of users with the rollout of “Strict Account Settings”. The feature enables a bundle of advanced safety protections through a single tap, significantly reducing exposure to potential cyber threats.
With this update, WhatsApp joins other major technology companies like Apple and Google, which have previously launched similar high-security modes to safeguard users against targeted digital attacks.
Who Is ‘Strict Account Settings’ Designed For?
Focus on High-Risk and Public-Facing Users
According to WhatsApp, “Strict Account Settings” are primarily intended to protect users from rare and highly sophisticated cyberattacks.
Ideal for Journalists, Activists and Public Figures
The company stated that the feature is especially useful for:
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Journalists
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Activists
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Public-facing individuals
These groups are often at a higher risk of targeted surveillance, hacking attempts, or cyber exploitation, making advanced protection essential.
What ‘Strict Account Settings’ Do
Multiple Security Measures Activated Automatically
Once enabled, “Strict Account Settings” automatically turn on several protective features that WhatsApp has identified as potential attack vectors.
Key Protections Included
The feature:
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Blocks media files and attachments from unknown senders
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Disables link previews, including thumbnails that appear when URLs are shared
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Silences calls from unknown contacts
WhatsApp said these elements have previously been used in advanced surveillance and cyberattack methods, and disabling them significantly improves account security.
One-Tap Activation for Existing Security Controls
Simplifying Advanced Security
While these security controls were already available individually on WhatsApp, users previously had to enable each one manually.
The new “Strict Account Settings” feature combines them into a single option, allowing users to activate stronger protection instantly with one tap, without navigating through multiple menus.
How to Enable ‘Strict Account Settings’ on WhatsApp
Step-by-Step Guide
Users can enable the feature by following these steps:
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Open WhatsApp
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Go to Settings
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Tap on Privacy
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Select Advanced
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Enable “Strict Account Settings”
Gradual Rollout Information
If the option is not visible:
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Ensure the app is updated to the latest version
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The feature may not have reached your account yet
WhatsApp confirmed that “Strict Account Settings” are being rolled out gradually and will be available to all users in the coming weeks.
WhatsApp Joins Apple and Google in Advanced Account Protection
Apple’s Lockdown Mode
In 2022, Apple introduced Lockdown Mode, described as an optional extreme protection feature for a very small group of users facing advanced digital threats. It:
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Disables most message attachments
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Blocks link previews
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Restricts FaceTime calls and web browsing
Google Android’s Advanced Protection Mode
Last year, Alphabet’s Android platform launched Advanced Protection Mode, which prioritises security over convenience by:
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Restricting certain app functionalities
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Limiting downloads of potentially risky apps from outside the Google Play Store
WhatsApp’s “Strict Account Settings” follow the same philosophy of maximum security with reduced exposure to attack surfaces.
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