WhatsApp has introduced Strict Account Settings, a new lockdown-style security feature designed to give users stronger protection against sophisticated cyberattacks. Meta says the feature is particularly useful for people who may face targeted attacks, including journalists and public figures.
Unlike individual privacy settings, Strict Account Settings applies several restrictive protections at once. When enabled, it can automatically block attachments and media from unknown senders, silence calls from people you don’t know, and restrict other settings that could potentially increase your exposure to attacks.
How to Turn On Strict Account Settings
The feature can be enabled directly from WhatsApp’s privacy settings.
- Open WhatsApp on your Android phone or iPhone.
- Open Settings.
- Tap Privacy.
- Scroll down and select Advanced.
- Look for Strict Account Settings.
- Turn on the Strict Account Settings option.
- Follow the confirmation instructions if WhatsApp displays them.
Meta officially lists the path as WhatsApp Settings → Privacy → Advanced.
What Happens When You Enable It?
Strict Account Settings puts your WhatsApp account into a more restrictive security mode.
One of the protections automatically blocks attachments and media from unknown senders. This can reduce the risk of receiving potentially harmful files from people you don’t know.
The feature also silences calls from unknown people. The calls won’t ring normally, helping reduce unwanted contact and another possible avenue for abuse.
WhatsApp also restricts other settings when Strict Account Settings is enabled. This is intentional: the feature is designed as a broader lockdown rather than simply adding another individual privacy toggle.
Should You Turn It On?
For most people, WhatsApp’s normal security and privacy protections may be sufficient. Strict Account Settings is intended primarily for people who could be targeted by rare and sophisticated cyberattacks.
If you’re a journalist, public figure, activist, researcher, business executive, or someone who regularly receives messages from unknown people, the additional restrictions may be worth considering.
However, there is a trade-off. Because the feature intentionally restricts certain WhatsApp functions, some normal interactions with unknown contacts may become less convenient.
What If You Can’t Find Strict Account Settings?
If the option isn’t visible under Settings → Privacy → Advanced, make sure WhatsApp is updated to the latest version available for your device.
The feature was announced by Meta in January 2026 and was initially described as rolling out in the following weeks, so availability can depend on the version of WhatsApp and the account or device receiving the feature.
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Strict Account Settings is best viewed as an extra security layer, not a replacement for basic account protection such as using a strong device passcode and protecting your WhatsApp verification code.
