Meta is enhancing WhatsApp’s security with a new feature called Strict Account Settings. This option allows users to easily manage their privacy by consolidating various security settings into one. You can find it under Settings > Privacy > Advanced on both iOS and Android versions of WhatsApp.
Strict Account Settings increase your privacy by allowing you to control who can see your last seen status, profile photo, and account details. You can also limit group additions, turn off link previews, block high-volume messages from unknown numbers, activate notifications for security code changes, and enable two-step verification automatically.
While the feature adds extra layers of security, users have the flexibility to toggle off individual features if they wish.
Meta designed this feature particularly for high-profile users, such as journalists and public figures, who may be more vulnerable to cyberattacks. It aims to provide a safer environment for everyone, though it recognizes that some individuals have greater risks.
According to a recent survey by cybersecurity firm McAfee, nearly 70% of people believe that their online privacy is at risk. With rising concern about data security, features like this are becoming essential. In a world where phishing attacks and malware are prevalent, the need for robust privacy settings is clear.
A Meta spokesperson has stressed that the company is committed to user privacy and that this feature is part of that promise. They clarified that the rollout would not be limited to specific accounts but would be available to all users.
The introduction of Strict Account Settings comes amid Meta’s ongoing efforts to secure user data. In a related update, the company announced it has transitioned its media processing library from C++ to Rust. This change is intended to improve security and reduce risks associated with handling media files.
Overall, as the digital landscape evolves, users are encouraged to be proactive in managing their security settings, especially in platforms that prioritize encryption and privacy. For more details on WhatsApp’s commitment to security features, visit their official page here.
