WhatsApp has taken another step in its privacy strategy by introducing a new strict security mode for the accountThis setting is designed for those who fear being targeted by cyberattacks, although it will be available to any user who prefers to set the bar for protection at the highest level.
This system works like a “lock mode” that concentrates the most advanced defenses with a single switch. Instead of going through each option individually within the app, simply activate the new strict settings for WhatsApp to immediately apply a set of restrictions that protect chats, calls, and profile data.
What is WhatsApp's strict mode and what is it used for?
The company has named this feature “Strict account settings” or “Strict account settings”It presents this as an additional layer of security on top of the end-to-end encryption that already protects messages. The idea is to minimize the usual entry points for spyware, malware, and more sophisticated attacks.
When this mode is turned on, the application automatically blocks the malicious attachments and the multimedia content that comes from numbers you don't have savedIt's a direct way to block the classic malicious file that arrives unexpectedly from an unknown sender.
Another important change is that Calls from unsaved numbers are silenced.This is an attempt to stop attack attempts that start with "phantom" or persistent calls, a technique that various cybersecurity experts have pointed out.
Furthermore, strict mode disable link previewsThis is a convenient feature, but it can expose technical information about the device or allow problematic content to be loaded without the user noticing. By eliminating these previews, the attack surface is reduced and indirect data leakage is limited.
What changes to your account when you activate strict settings
Beyond messages and calls, this new setting touches on several aspects of account configuration. Increase your privacy level without having to go through menu by menuThe goal is that, with a single step, the app will be configured in a reinforced security mode.
Among the measures that are applied when strict mode is activated are several restrictions regarding groups. Only people you have saved in your address book will be able to add you directly to groups.or a very small group of contacts that you choose. This way you avoid mass invitations from strangers or attempts to add you to potentially dangerous chats.
This feature also affects the information you show to others. With this setting, The visibility of the profile picture, last seen time, or information section can be limited to contacts only.reducing what those who are not saved on your mobile see.
The security package is completed with changes to notifications and in the account protection system. Two-step verification remains active by default This mode adds an extra layer when you try to log in from a new device or reinstall the app.
Another important detail is that Notifications are displayed when a contact's encryption code changes.This makes it easier to detect if something unusual is happening with the other person's session. Additionally, in certain situations, calls can be routed through WhatsApp's servers to make it more difficult to locate the user.
Antispyware layer and internal use of Rust
Along with this strict configuration, WhatsApp is reinforcing the analysis of content circulating on the platform to detect potentially dangerous files before they cause a problemThe company frames this move within a antispyware system designed to stop advanced surveillance tools.
To do this, the application It internally integrates the Rust programming languageKnown in the technology sector for its focus on security and reliable memory management, this type of technology is used to scan photos, videos, and documents for suspicious behavior, blocking them before they reach the device or vulnerabilities can be exploited.
The intention is that, even if a malicious file were to pass other filters, WhatsApp's internal infrastructure is better prepared to withstand sophisticated attacksespecially those aimed at a small group of high-value targets.
This entire set of changes aligns with the path already taken by other major tech companies. Apple introduced a enhanced protection mode for your highest-risk usersGoogle has been working for years on advanced security programs for particularly vulnerable profiles. Now WhatsApp is joining in with its own version within the Meta ecosystem.
In the European context, where public institutions and bodies are increasingly emphasizing data protection and digital security, These types of roles can be especially useful for political figures, investigative journalists, or activists. who carry out their activity in Spain or in other EU countries.
Who should consider using strict mode?
Although anyone can activate it, WhatsApp makes it clear that This level of protection is primarily intended for individuals who may be targeted by digital espionage campaigns.Among the profiles that the company itself mentions are communicators, public figures, human rights defenders, and users who manage highly sensitive information.
For these types of accounts, even a minor oversight—like opening a malicious attachment or accepting a suspicious group invitation—can have serious consequences. With strict mode enabled, These are the weaknesses that attackers often exploit to gain access to the device or data..
That said, any user in Spain or Europe who has suffered constant scam attempts, persistent messages from unknown numbers, or suspicious calls may appreciate this setting as a simple way to further close the door to contacts you don't knowHowever, this comes at the cost of sacrificing some convenience in daily use.
It's important to remember that the configuration is completely voluntary and reversibleAt any time, you can deactivate strict mode and return to a more flexible configuration, while still maintaining some basic protections that the app applies by default to all its users.
The company also notes that, even with this feature enabled, End-to-end encryption remains the foundation of the systemThe new mode does not change how conversation content is protected, but adds additional barriers against external attacks.
How to activate strict mode in WhatsApp
Regarding its activation, the company is gradually rolling out the feature across different markets, including European ones. If you don't see the option on your phone yet, it's just a matter of time before it appears in a future update., both on Android and iOS.
When available, access is through the usual privacy section. In the general path, you will need to go to Settings > Privacy > Advanced or a similar section where the reference to "Strict Account Settings" or "Strict Settings" appears.
From there you can activate or deactivate the switch at any timeIn some cases, the app may display a brief summary of the changes being applied so that the user is clear about what is involved in activating this more restrictive mode.
It should be noted that The management of this function is limited to the main device where the app is installed. It is not possible to modify strict mode from WhatsApp Web or other linked clients, which is intended to prevent unauthorized remote changes.
Once configured, the app's behavior will change quite noticeably with regard to calls, downloads, and group requests, so It's normal to notice a more controlled and, in some ways, less social user experience.That's precisely the idea: to sacrifice some comfort in exchange for gaining security.
With this new option, WhatsApp strengthens its catalog of tools to protect its users' accounts and aligns itself with the general trend in the sector towards high-security modes designed for those who cannot afford failuresbut open to anyone who wants to put protection ahead of immediacy in their daily chats.
