WhatsApp, owned by Meta, has introduced a new security feature called Strict Account Settings to protect users from cyber threats. This move follows legal action against Meta regarding alleged privacy misrepresentations involving WhatsApp. The feature imposes stringent measures such as blocking media from unknown senders, muting calls from unfamiliar numbers, disabling link previews, and enabling the blocking of numerous unknown messages.
With Strict Account Settings active, users automatically enable two-step verification and receive security notifications for any changes in chat partner codes. Additionally, the privacy control restricts the visibility of last seen status, online status, profile photo, about details, and profile links to only contacts. Moreover, users can now limit group additions to pre-approved contacts or selected individuals.
Meta describes this feature as a security enhancement designed to reduce users’ susceptibility to cyber attacks by restricting account functionality. The company emphasizes that this upgrade, beneficial for journalists and public figures, will gradually roll out in the upcoming weeks.
To activate Strict Account Settings, users can navigate to Settings > Privacy > Advanced. Notably, changes to this setting are only permitted from the primary device, not companion platforms such as WhatsApp for Web or Windows.
Source: TechCrunch