WhatsApp has announced the launch of a major new security feature designed to offer enhanced protection to users facing elevated digital risks. The feature, called Strict Account Settings, is aimed primarily at journalists, activists, and public figures who are more vulnerable to cyberattacks, spyware, and targeted surveillance.
The move comes amid growing global concerns about digital privacy, hacking attempts, and the misuse of spyware against high-profile individuals. With more than 2 billion users worldwide, WhatsApp remains one of the most widely used messaging platforms, making security a critical priority for its parent company, Meta.
What Are Strict Account Settings?
According to WhatsApp, Strict Account Settings automatically apply the strongest available privacy and security controls to a user’s account. Once enabled, the feature places the account into a form of lockdown mode, limiting certain functions that could be exploited by attackers.
Most notably, the new settings block attachments and media files sent by unknown contacts. This step is particularly important, as malicious files are a common method used to install spyware or malware on smartphones.
In addition, other advanced protections are activated automatically, reducing the need for users to manually adjust multiple privacy options. WhatsApp says the goal is to simplify security for users who may not have technical expertise but face serious digital threats.
Designed for Journalists and Public Figures
WhatsApp has stated that the feature was developed specifically for people at higher risk of cyberattacks. Journalists, human rights defenders, and political figures have increasingly been targeted using sophisticated surveillance tools in recent years.
Reports from digital rights groups have documented how spyware can be delivered through messaging apps, often without the user’s knowledge. In some cases, attackers exploit vulnerabilities in media file handling to gain access to devices.
By restricting how unknown contacts interact with an account, WhatsApp hopes to reduce these attack surfaces significantly.
How to Enable the Feature
Users can enable Strict Account Settings directly from the app. The option is located under:
Settings → Privacy → Advanced
Once activated, the system immediately applies the enhanced controls. WhatsApp notes that some features may feel limited under this mode. However, the company says the trade-off is justified for users prioritizing security over convenience.
The rollout of the feature has already begun. According to WhatsApp, it will become available to all users globally over the coming weeks.
Strengthening the App’s Security Infrastructure
Beyond new user-facing features, WhatsApp is also making deeper technical changes to improve security at the platform level. The company confirmed it is expanding its use of the Rust programming language, which is widely regarded as a memory-safe alternative to older languages.
Rust is designed to prevent entire classes of vulnerabilities related to memory misuse. These flaws are often exploited in cyberattacks involving images, videos, and other media files.
WhatsApp revealed that it has replaced 160,000 lines of C++ code with 90,000 lines of Rust code within its media processing systems. As a result, the app has seen improved performance and reduced memory usage during runtime.
Why This Matters
Cybersecurity experts increasingly warn that messaging apps are prime targets for attackers, especially when used by influential individuals. According to industry studies, messaging-based attacks have risen steadily over the past decade, driven by the widespread adoption of encrypted platforms.
WhatsApp’s emphasis on both user controls and backend security reflects a broader shift in the tech industry. Rather than relying on a single defense, companies are adopting layered protection strategies.
Looking Ahead
While Strict Account Settings may not be necessary for every user, its availability marks an important step forward. It gives those at higher risk a clearer and more accessible way to protect their digital communications.
As online threats continue to evolve, WhatsApp’s latest update highlights the growing importance of proactive security measures—both for individuals and for the platforms they rely on every day.
