Meta-owned WhatsApp has rolled out a major privacy-focused update in 2026, introducing Strict Account Settings, a new security feature designed to offer stronger protection against hacking, scams, and spyware threats.
While WhatsApp already safeguards user conversations with end-to-end encryption—ensuring messages remain private between the sender and recipient—the company acknowledges that rising cyber risks require additional layers of defence.
The new feature bundles several advanced safety controls into a single toggle, making it easier for users to secure their accounts without navigating multiple technical settings. With this update, WhatsApp aims to offer maximum protection, particularly for users who may be more vulnerable to targeted attacks.
Although WhatsApp’s end-to-end encryption prevents third parties from reading messages, users can still be exposed to risks such as phishing attempts, malicious links, spyware attacks, and unwanted contact from unknown numbers. These threats often rely on social engineering rather than message interception.
To address this gap, WhatsApp has introduced Strict Account Settings as a proactive safety layer that limits how unknown users can interact with an account.
Strict Account Settings is designed as an all-in-one security switch. Instead of manually adjusting individual privacy and safety options, users can enable a single setting that automatically applies WhatsApp’s most protective configurations.
The goal, according to WhatsApp, is to make stronger security accessible even to users who may not fully understand the technical aspects of digital privacy.
When Strict Account Settings is turned on, WhatsApp automatically activates several privacy safeguards that reduce exposure to suspicious activity and unsolicited communication.
Messages, media, and attachments from unknown numbers are blocked
Calls from numbers not saved in your contacts are automatically silenced
Link previews are disabled to reduce the risk of malicious or harmful links
Only approved contacts can add you to WhatsApp groups
Profile details such as profile photo, About, Last Seen, and Online status are hidden
Two-step verification is enabled to add an extra layer of account protection
Users receive alerts if any changes are made to their account’s security settings
Together, these measures significantly reduce the chances of attackers reaching users or attempting to deceive them through WhatsApp.
WhatsApp has acknowledged that enabling Strict Account Settings may reduce convenience for some users, such as limiting spontaneous communication or group invitations. However, the company says the feature is specifically aimed at users who prioritise safety, including journalists, public figures, activists, and individuals at higher risk of online targeting.
WhatsApp will begin rolling out Strict Account Settings globally over the next few weeks. Once the feature is available on your device, it can be enabled with a single tap:
Open WhatsApp Settings
Go to Privacy
Select Advanced Settings
Turn on Strict Account Settings
This setting can only be enabled or changed from your primary smartphone. It will not appear on WhatsApp Web or desktop versions.
With this update, Meta joins other major tech companies that offer enhanced protection modes, such as Apple’s Lockdown Mode and Google’s Advanced Protection. These features are designed to defend users against sophisticated digital threats by limiting potential attack surfaces.
The move highlights Meta’s increasing focus on privacy and security at a time when online scams, impersonation fraud, and spyware attacks continue to rise globally.
The update also comes amid ongoing debates and claims surrounding WhatsApp’s handling of user data. Despite these concerns, WhatsApp has repeatedly reassured users that such claims are false and that user messages cannot be accessed by anyone, thanks to end-to-end encryption.
The introduction of Strict Account Settings marks a significant step in WhatsApp’s evolving privacy strategy. By consolidating multiple advanced security tools into a single, easy-to-use feature, WhatsApp is making high-level protection more accessible to everyday users. As cyber threats grow more sophisticated, this update reinforces WhatsApp’s commitment to user safety, privacy, and trust in 2026 and beyond.