US EditionWhatsApp Launches 'Strict Account Settings': How to Enable the New Lockdown-Style Mode?
The feature blocks media and calls from unknown contacts and limits profile visibility, targeting protection for at-risk users like journalists, WhatsApp said.
- Over the coming weeks, WhatsApp will roll out Strict Account Settings globally via Settings > Privacy > Advanced, where users can enable the feature in the app.
- Days after a lawsuit alleged WhatsApp conversations lack true end-to-end encryption and employees can request message access, Meta denied these claims to PCMag as false and frivolous.
- The setting locks down accounts by applying the highest restrictions, blocking attachments and calls from unknown senders, restricting profile details, and limiting group chat settings.
- In its support page, WhatsApp says the setting is intended to safeguard at-risk users, warning `You should only turn this on if you think you may be a target of a sophisticated cyber campaign.`
- Following industry moves, Apple Lockdown Mode and Android Advanced Protection reflect similar concepts, while Meta plans for subscriptions later this year.
20 Articles
20 Articles
WhatsApp has published a function that allows the service to be severely restricted. The aim is to make itself as invulnerable as possible. What is this good for?
WhatsApp launches strict account settings to block cyberattacks
Discover WhatsApp's new 'Strict Account Settings' feature designed to protect users from advanced cyberattacks. Learn how this security enhancement locks privacy settings and limits hacking vectors, offering stronger defenses for journalists, public figures, and activists.
WhatsApp launches 'Strict Account Settings': How to enable the new lockdown-style mode?
Meta introduced Strict account settings on WhatsApp, providing extreme protections against cyber attacks for users at risk, such as journalists. This feature limits media from non-contacts and restricts calls and group additions, but may degrade the messaging experience.
WhatsApp is repeatedly used to lure users into phishing traps or infect them with malware. Most recently, in November, authorities warned of large-scale attacks on messaging services like WhatsApp and Telegram. Meta now aims to put a stop to these attacks and is introducing a new feature designed to make your account virtually impregnable. The company recently presented these "strict account settings" in a blog post. What are strict account sett…
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