The company said the feature is designed to reduce vulnerability by limiting how unknown users can interact with an account.
Digital
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Storyboard28-01-2026, 10:35

WhatsApp Rolls Out 'Strict Account Settings' for Enhanced Privacy and Security

  • WhatsApp introduces 'Strict Account Settings,' a new privacy and security feature to combat scams, harassment, and cyberattacks.
  • This lockdown-style option bundles multiple restrictive controls into a single switch, simplifying account security for users.
  • When enabled, it blocks media from unknown contacts, silences calls from unsaved numbers, and disables link previews.
  • The setting also activates two-step verification, enhances group privacy, and restricts visibility of 'last seen' and profile info.
  • Ideal for journalists, activists, and public figures, it's available to all users and can be enabled via Settings > Privacy > Advanced.

Why It Matters: WhatsApp's new 'Strict Account Settings' offers a simplified, robust way to enhance user privacy and security.

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