WhatsApp has enhanced user security; learn about the new Strict Account Settings feature, what it does, and how it will help..

Meta's messaging service WhatsApp is now offering users a new advanced security mode. This move comes at a time when several major US tech companies are providing users with stricter security options, although this often comes at the cost of limiting some features.

According to a Reuters report, WhatsApp's new feature, called 'Strict Account Settings', began rolling out on Tuesday. It's a one-click option available in the settings, and enabling it activates several additional security layers on the account.

Under this mode, media files and attachments from unknown numbers will be automatically blocked. Additionally, the preview of links in chats (the thumbnail that appears when a URL is shared) will be disabled.

Which feature is automatically disabled when WhatsApp's 'Strict Account Settings' mode is turned on?
A. Only video calls are disabled
B. Media files from unknown numbers are blocked
C. All group chats are muted
D. All chats are deleted

Also, calls from unknown contacts will be silenced. According to security experts, these three things often serve as entry points for surveillance and advanced hacking attacks.

WhatsApp clarified in its blog post that while all users' chats are already protected by end-to-end encryption, some people—such as journalists, activists, or users with public profiles—may require a very high level of security. This feature has been designed with such users in mind.

These companies have also offered 'Strict Features'
Meta has now joined a select group of tech companies that are offering special security modes for high-risk users. In 2022, Apple launched Lockdown Mode for iPhones and macOS, which restricts message attachments, link previews, FaceTime calls, and web browsing. 

Last year, Google introduced Advanced Protection Mode in Android, which includes restrictions such as preventing the download of apps from outside the Play Store.
According to cybersecurity researcher John Scott-Railton, WhatsApp's move is very welcome. He says it will provide better security to dissidents and activists and will also put pressure on other tech companies to take security more seriously.

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