Secure Your Information from Unwanted Access
With privacy becoming a major concern in today's digital age, it's vital to take measures to protect your personal data. WhatsApp has always prioritized user privacy through end-to-end encryption and various security features. Recently, Meta has stepped up its game by introducing a new feature called Strict Account Settings, designed to provide an additional layer of security against sophisticated cyber threats.
When activated, this feature will automatically block any media and attachments from unknown accounts, silence calls from unfamiliar contacts, disable link previews, and prevent unknown contacts from adding you to groups. This proactive approach significantly enhances your privacy on the platform.
Here’s How to Enable Strict Account Settings:
- Open the WhatsApp Settings menu, then navigate to Privacy > Advanced > Strict Account Settings.
- Select Next.
- Tap Turn On and confirm by selecting Turn On again from the popup.
For additional customization, under the Advanced section, you’ll find toggles that allow you to disable link previews and block messages from unknown users, giving you the option to tailor your privacy settings according to your needs.
What You Should Know
The default setting for Strict Account Settings is off, so activating it promptly is advisable to safeguard your communications further. This new feature rollout comes at a significant time; just days ago, a lawsuit was filed against Meta, alleging that WhatsApp’s personal messages are not completely secure. In response, WhatsApp's head, Will Cathcart, has refuted the claims, insisting they are unfounded.
For those concerned about privacy, now is the time to enable this new feature. If you have an Apple device, consider utilizing the Lockdown Mode feature. For Android users, activating the Advanced Protection Mode can further bolster your account's security, a feature launched alongside Android 16.
Meta will begin rolling out this feature in the coming weeks. Remember, you can only enable or disable Strict Account Settings through your primary device, not via WhatsApp Web.
