WhatsApp is facing the heat at the moment. The platform is facing a lawsuit by a group of international WhatsApp users who have alleged that Meta can read all your messages on the app, even with end-to-end encryption. While WhatsApp continues to deny all the allegations, the platform has introduced better security features that can also protect you from spyware.

WhatsApp introduces new security settings amid lawsuit

WhatsApp has announced a new ‘Strict Account Settings’ mode. The platform claims that this mode aims to protect users from increasingly sophisticated cyber threats. According to the official blog post, the Strict account settings mode brings maximum security and can be useful for users who are at high risk of cyber attacks, such as journalists or public figures. This comes at a time when tech billionaire Elon Musk had called the platform ‘not secure’ after the lawsuit was filed.

According to Meta’s proprietary platform, when this mode is turned on, some account preferences are locked to the most restrictive options. For example, this mode blocks attachments and media from people you’re not in contact with, disables link previews, and silences calls from unknown senders. You can enable it by opening the Advanced menu in the Privacy section of the Settings page.

However, WhatsApp has stressed that the feature is not necessary for general users, as end-to-end encryption already keeps normal conversations secure. The platform also emphasizes that Meta cannot read your messages, despite the allegations made in the lawsuit.

WhatsApp says all users are now better protected from spyware

While the new strict mode is optional, WhatsApp has also announced a behind-the-scenes update that improves security for all users. The Meta-owned platform has started using the Rust programming language in key components of its applications. This technical change aims to strengthen security for all users, helping to keep photos, videos and messages safe from potential spyware threats.

WhatsApp has clarified that the backend transition to Rust does not require any action on the part of individual users.