WhatsApp is introducing a powerful new security feature designed to protect users from spam, cyberattacks, and unwanted contact from unknown numbers and accounts. The feature isn’t a cosmetic add‑on — it’s a major privacy enhancement that gives you tighter control over who can interact with your account.

Here’s what you need to know.

1. 🛡️ What Is the Advanced Security Mode?

WhatsApp’s new Advanced Security Mode (officially called Strict Account Settings) is an optional, lockdown‑style security setting you can enable in the app. It bundles multiple privacy protections into one switch that:

• Blocks media and attachments from unknown senders
• Silences calls from unknown numbers
• Limits who can add you to groups
• Restricts profile visibility and activity status

This mode goes beyond the standard settings to protect you from spam, phishing, and sophisticated cyber threats.

2. 📞 Block Unknown Calls Automatically

Once enabled, whatsapp will silence calls from contacts who aren’t in your phone book — no more ringing or interruptions from random numbers. You’ll still see missed calls, but they won’t disrupt you.

Why it matters:
Many scam and spam calls start with unknown whatsapp calls — this stops that right at the source.

3. 📎 Stop Unknown Files and Attachments

Advanced Security Mode blocks or restricts media files and attachments (images, videos, documents, APKs, etc.) from people you haven’t saved in contacts. These files are often used to spread malware, spyware, or phishing links.

This helps cut off one common vector for cyberattacks on messaging platforms.

4. 🔒 Tighter Privacy Controls

With the feature turned on, whatsapp locks several visibility settings to reduce your exposure:

• Last seen / online status visible only to contacts
• Profile photo and About info hidden from unknown users
• Group invites restricted so only trusted contacts can add you

This makes your account much less discoverable to strangers.

5. 📌 How It Protects Against Cyberattacks

WhatsApp says this mode is targeted at users who may data-face advanced threats, such as journalists, activists, and public figures — though any user can turn it on. It adds protections that reduce loopholes that attackers might exploit, such as link previews and unsolicited media.

This feature is similar in spirit to other platforms’ high‑security modes like Apple’s lockdown Mode and Android’s Advanced Protection.

6. 📱 How to Enable It

You can turn on Advanced Security Mode from your primary device (not via whatsapp Web or desktop) as follows:

Open WhatsApp

Go to Settings → Privacy

Tap Advanced

Enable Strict Account Settings

The option may not appear immediately — whatsapp is rolling it out gradually to users worldwide over the coming weeks.

7. ⚠️ Will This Affect How whatsapp Works?

Yes — but intentionally so. When enabled:

• Certain features are restricted for safety
• You get fewer interactions with unknown users
• Some convenience features (like instant file previews) are limited

This is a trade‑off between usability and maximum privacy — meant for those who want the tightest possible protection.

8. 🧠 Who Should Use It?

➡️ High‑risk individuals: Journalists, public figures, activists
➡️ Anyone facing spam or unsolicited contacts
➡️ Users who want maximum control over their wallet PLATFORM' target='_blank' title='digital-Latest Updates, Photos, Videos are a click away, CLICK NOW">digital footprint

Even if you don’t need it now, knowing this option exists gives you an extra layer of defense when you want it.

💡 Pro Tip: If you start seeing a lot of spam calls, unknown file shares, or random group adds — try flipping this setting on. It consolidates the strongest privacy options into one click.

 

Disclaimer:

The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any agency, organization, employer, or company. All information provided is for general informational purposes only. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, reliability, or suitability of the information contained herein. Readers are advised to verify facts and seek professional advice where necessary. Any reliance placed on such information is strictly at the reader’s own risk.