WhatsApp’s new ‘lockdown’ settings add another layer of protection against cyberattacks

Source: The Verge

WhatsApp launches “Strict Account Settings”

WhatsApp is rolling out a new “Strict Account Settings” feature that adds extra protections against cyberattacks. Designed for users who are at a higher risk of being targeted—such as journalists, public figures, and other high‑profile individuals—the setting automatically blocks attachments and media from senders you don’t know, while silencing calls from unknown numbers.

The feature aims to reduce the likelihood of malicious files or phishing attempts reaching vulnerable users. When enabled, WhatsApp will:

• Block incoming media (photos, videos, documents) from contacts not in your address book.
• Prevent unknown senders from delivering potentially harmful attachments.
• Silence calls from numbers that aren’t saved in your contacts.

Users can toggle Strict Account Settings in the app’s privacy menu, and the option will be off by default. WhatsApp says the setting is part of its broader effort to improve security and give users more control over who can reach them.