WhatsApp Enhances Security With New ‘Strict Account Settings’
Table of Contents
- 1. WhatsApp Enhances Security With New ‘Strict Account Settings’
- 2. What are ‘Strict account Settings’?
- 3. beyond Account settings: Rust for Enhanced Protection
- 4. A closer Look at Rust’s Advantages
- 5. Who Will Benefit Most?
- 6. How can I set up and manage passkeys for WhatsApp account security?
- 7. WhatsApp Introduces Strict Account Settings to Fortify Privacy and Security
- 8. Enhanced Privacy Controls: Who Can See What?
- 9. Disappearing Mode Improvements & Enhanced Screenshot Protection
- 10. Account Security: Passkey Support & Device Linking
- 11. Addressing Compatibility issues & Third-Party apps
- 12. Real-World Impact & User Feedback
WhatsApp, The World’s Leading Messaging Submission, is bolstering its commitment to user privacy with the introduction of “Strict Account Settings.” This new function offers heightened security measures designed to protect against elegant cyberattacks, particularly for individuals who require an elevated level of data protection. The update comes as concerns about digital security continue to rise globally, with recent reports indicating a 36% increase in cybercrime over the last year.
What are ‘Strict account Settings’?
Activating “Strict Account Settings” automatically configures chosen account preferences to their most secure levels. This prioritization, however, comes with some trade-offs in functionality. Specifically, users will find that media and attachments originating from contacts not saved in their address book will be blocked. The feature, which WhatsApp describes as a response to increasing threats from highly-targeted attacks, will be rolled out gradually to users over the coming weeks and can be enabled through Settings > Privacy > Advanced.
beyond Account settings: Rust for Enhanced Protection
The introduction of “Strict Account Settings” is just one component of WhatsApp’s broader initiative to fortify user security. The Company has also been implementing the Rust programming language behind the scenes. Rust is renowned for its memory safety features,which make it incredibly resistant to the kind of vulnerabilities exploited by spyware and other malicious software. This update secures photos, videos, and messages, fostering worry-free communication. According to The Rust Foundation, Rust is gaining significant traction in high-security applications due to its inherent safety characteristics.
A closer Look at Rust’s Advantages
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Memory Safety | Prevents common vulnerabilities like buffer overflows. |
| Concurrency | Allows for safer and more efficient handling of multiple tasks. |
| Performance | Offers speed comparable to C and C++. |
These changes reflect a broader industry trend towards prioritizing security by design. Companies like Signal and Telegram have long been lauded for their commitment to privacy, and WhatsApp is now actively working to close the gap. Furthermore, WhatsApp’s end-to-end encryption has remained a cornerstone of its security model, ensuring that messages are only readable by the sender and recipient.
Who Will Benefit Most?
While all WhatsApp Users can benefit from improved security, the “Strict Account Settings” are particularly relevant for those facing higher risks. Journalists, human rights activists, political figures, and individuals conducting sensitive business communications will gain the most from this upgrade.It provides an additional layer of defense against potential breaches and surveillance attempts.
With increasing cyberattacks and privacy concerns, WhatsApp’s latest initiatives demonstrate a proactive approach to safeguarding user data. The implementation of “Strict Account Settings” and the adoption of Rust represent a significant step toward building a more secure messaging surroundings.
Do you believe these enhanced security features will encourage greater trust in messaging apps? And how important is end-to-end encryption to yoru personal digital privacy?
How can I set up and manage passkeys for WhatsApp account security?
WhatsApp Introduces Strict Account Settings to Fortify Privacy and Security
whatsapp, the globally dominant messaging app, has rolled out a series of notable updates to its account settings, prioritizing user privacy and security. These changes, implemented throughout January 2026, represent a considerable shift towards giving users more granular control over their data and interactions. This article details the new features, explains how to utilize them, and explores the implications for both individual users and broader digital security.
Enhanced Privacy Controls: Who Can See What?
The core of the update revolves around refining who can see yoru profile information. Previously, options were relatively broad. Now, whatsapp offers a tiered system:
* Everyone: Remains the default for profile photo, ‘About’ information, and Last Seen.
* My Contacts: Limits visibility to those saved in your phone’s address book. This is a popular choice for users seeking a balance between accessibility and privacy.
* My Contacts Except…: This new, highly anticipated feature allows you to specifically exclude certain contacts from viewing your profile details, even if they are saved in your phone. This is especially useful for managing relationships or avoiding unwanted attention.
* Nobody: Completely hides your profile photo, ‘About’ information, and Last Seen from all users.
These settings are now individually configurable. You can, for example, allow all contacts to see your profile photo but restrict access to your ‘About’ section to only select individuals. Access these settings via Settings > Privacy > Last Seen & Online, Settings > Privacy > Profile Photo, and Settings > Privacy > About.
Disappearing Mode Improvements & Enhanced Screenshot Protection
WhatsApp’s Disappearing Mode, introduced in late 2020, has received further enhancements.While messages already vanish after 24 hours, the platform is now implementing more robust screenshot detection.
* Screenshot Notifications: While WhatsApp doesn’t prevent screenshots, the update introduces notifications to both sender and receiver when a screenshot is taken within a Disappearing Mode chat. This acts as a deterrent and increases awareness.
* One-View Media: A new option allows sending photos and videos that can only be viewed once. After viewing, the media disappears permanently and cannot be replayed or forwarded.This feature is designed for sensitive content and adds another layer of privacy.
These features are accessed directly within individual chat windows by swiping up on the chat thread to activate Disappearing Mode, and the one-view media option appears alongside the media attachment icon.
Account Security: Passkey Support & Device Linking
WhatsApp is bolstering account security with the introduction of passkeys and refined device linking protocols.
* Passkey Integration: Passkeys, a passwordless sign-in method, are now supported. This utilizes biometric authentication (fingerprint or facial recognition) or a device PIN to verify your identity, eliminating the risk of phishing attacks and password breaches. Setting up passkeys is done through Settings > Security > Passkeys.
* Device Linking Management: The “Linked devices” section has been revamped. Users now have a clearer overview of all devices logged into their account and can remotely log out of any device with a single tap. WhatsApp also sends a notification to your primary device whenever a new device attempts to link. This is found under Settings > Devices > Linked Devices.
* Account Protection: WhatsApp is actively combating account hijacking through improved detection algorithms and stricter verification processes. Users are encouraged to enable two-step verification for an added layer of security ( Settings > Account > Two-Step Verification).
Addressing Compatibility issues & Third-Party apps
Recent reports, particularly in early 2026, highlighted compatibility issues with unofficial WhatsApp versions, especially those distributed through certain third-party app stores. these modified versions often compromise security and can led to account bans.
WhatsApp is actively cracking down on these unauthorized apps. The official recommendation remains: always download WhatsApp from the official app stores (Google Play Store or Apple App Store) or directly from the WhatsApp website. (Refer to https://www.zhihu.com/question/4800859534 for more information on resolving compatibility issues stemming from unofficial versions). Using unofficial versions voids WhatsApp’s security guarantees and puts your data at risk.
Real-World Impact & User Feedback
Early user feedback on the new privacy settings has been overwhelmingly positive. Many appreciate the
