In a move to enhance user protection against a rising tide of cyber threats, Meta’s WhatsApp is rolling out a new optional feature called Strict Account Settings. This “lockdown-style” security layer is designed to offer a more fortified communication experience, particularly for individuals who may be at a higher risk of being targeted online.
A Closer Look at Strict Account Settings
When enabled, the new setting implements a suite of robust security measures. It automatically blocks media and attachments from unknown senders, silences calls from non-contacts, and disables link previews to prevent potential phishing attempts. The feature also activates two-step verification and security notifications by default, alerting users if a contact’s security code changes.
Furthermore, Strict Account Settings tightens privacy controls by restricting visibility of a user’s ‘last seen’ status, online presence, profile photo, and ‘about’ details to only their saved contacts. The ability to be added to groups is also limited to contacts, preventing unsolicited additions.
Who Is This For?
WhatsApp has indicated that this heightened security mode will be particularly beneficial for users who face a greater risk of targeted online attacks, such as journalists, activists, and public figures. The feature can be activated by navigating to Settings > Privacy > Advanced within the app. Meta has specified that these settings can only be managed from a user’s primary device, not from companion platforms like WhatsApp Web or desktop clients.
The timing of this launch follows a recent lawsuit filed against Meta, which alleged false privacy claims regarding the chat app’s security. WhatsApp’s leadership has publicly refuted these claims.
Relevance for the MENA Region
For the MENA tech ecosystem, this update is highly significant. WhatsApp is not just a messaging app in the region; it is a primary tool for business communication, client relations, and deal-making for founders and VCs. The introduction of Strict Account Settings provides an essential layer of protection for sensitive business discussions that frequently take place on the platform.
With a growing number of high-profile entrepreneurs, investors, and tech leaders in MENA, the risk of sophisticated cyberattacks like spear-phishing is ever-present. This new feature offers a practical way for the region’s key figures to secure their digital communications and protect proprietary information from malicious actors.
About WhatsApp
WhatsApp is a globally popular freeware, cross-platform, centralized instant messaging and voice-over-IP service owned by Meta Platforms. It allows users to send text and voice messages, make voice and video calls, and share images, documents, user locations, and other content.
Source: TechCrunch
