WhatsApp testing ‘Strict Account Settings’ for users at high risk of cyber attacks

WhatsApp

WhatsApp is preparing to roll out a new security option called “Strict Account Settings” to help users who believe they’re at risk of cyber attacks. The feature, currently in testing through TestFlight, appears under Privacy > Advanced in the beta version of the app, according to WABetaInfo.

The new mode activates what WhatsApp describes as “extreme protections,” automatically locking down several features and privacy settings to safeguard accounts. Once enabled, users won’t be able to adjust certain settings manually, though they can turn the feature off at any time.

Among the changes applied automatically are restrictions on media and attachments from unknown senders, silencing of calls from unfamiliar numbers, and blocking group invites from non-contacts. The feature also disables link previews, enables two-step verification, notifies users about encryption key changes, and limits who can see personal information like profile photos and status updates.

WhatsApp notes that while these protections significantly enhance security, they may also reduce call quality and messaging convenience. The feature is designed primarily for journalists, activists, politicians, and others who might be more vulnerable to targeted attacks.

Many of the protections included in Strict Account Settings already exist individually in WhatsApp, but this new mode conveniently bundles them into one switch for faster, more comprehensive defence.

There’s no word yet on when WhatsApp plans to make the feature publicly available, though it’s expected to reach all users once testing concludes.