WhatsApp is strengthening its reputation as a privacy-first messaging platform by launching new features to safeguard users against more advanced digital threats.
A WhatsApp blog stated that the Meta-owned messaging service is also introducing new features to encrypt all aspects of default end-to-end encryption, locking accounts, and restricting the ability to share sensitive conversations, especially when users are at increased risk of security threats.
The company reported that these updates are made to ensure that online private conversations remain as secure as those held in person.
Although the encryption used by WhatsApp already protects messages and calls against external interference, the application realizes that some users, such as journalists and other publicly visible experts, may need an additional shield against infrequent yet highly sophisticated cyber-attacks.
In order to deal with those risks, WhatsApp has introduced a new lockdown- style feature, known as Strict Account Settings. The setting is activated by default and will impose the most restrictive privacy settings on the user’s account, restricting the functionality of WhatsApp in several important aspects.
With Strict Account Settings, they can block attachments and media of an individual not in the contacts of a user, so that they are not exposed to potentially malicious files. Some account settings are locked once enabled, and one cannot make an accidental change that might compromise the security.
The feature is being rolled out in the next few weeks and can be turned on by visiting Settings > Privacy > Advanced. WhatsApp defines Strict Account Settings as one of a number of features that are intended to ensure the security of the user against the most advanced cyber threats.
Besides these front controls, there are also other back controls that the company has put in place, such as the programming language Rust, to reinforce defense against spyware and other security vulnerabilities to protect photos, videos, and messages.
In addition to account-level protection, WhatsApp will also be improving privacy in one-on-one chats and groups. The platform launched Advanced Chat Privacy in April, 2025, an option intended to ensure data will not be exported out of WhatsApp in cases where extra discretion is needed.
Advanced Chat Privacy, when enabled, prevents others from exporting chats, automatically downloading media to their devices, and using messages with AI. This is to guarantee that the discussions will be contained in WhatsApp, as participants will be assured that sensitive conversations will not be disclosed in other places.
The option can be used in one-on-one chats and in group discussions, which is consistent with the opinion of WhatsApp that groups are becoming more like networks in the real world. The company observes that Advanced Chat Privacy can be especially valuable in sensitive group environments, like health support communities or local organizing initiatives.
The setting can be turned on by tapping the name of the chat and choosing Advanced Chat Privacy. The version is the initial feature, and it is projected to add more protections in the future. The environment is being released to every user on the current version of WhatsApp.
