New WhatsApp Update Adds Powerful Shields Against Scams And Hacks

WhatsApp Rolls Out 8 Powerful Safety Features To Protect Accounts: WhatsApp is no longer just a simple messaging platform. Over the years, it has evolved into a digital extension of everyday life, storing personal chats, financial details, media, and professional conversations. As its global user base continues to expand, so do concerns around privacy, scams, and cyber intrusions. Responding to rising threats, the February 2026 WhatsApp update has introduced a range of lockdown-style security features designed to give users tighter control over their data and communications.

Below is a closer look at the most important tools users should enable immediately to strengthen account safety.

Stricter Account Privacy Controls

One of the most significant additions in the WhatsApp Update 2026 is the Advanced Privacy setting. Once activated through the privacy menu, this feature automatically blocks media files and attachments from unknown numbers.

The aim is to reduce exposure to spyware, phishing files, and malicious downloads. This tool is especially beneficial for individuals who are more vulnerable to targeted cyberattacks, including professionals, business owners, and public figures. By filtering suspicious files at the entry level, it adds a strong first layer of defence.

Close Friends Status Sharing

Borrowing inspiration from social media platforms, WhatsApp has introduced the Close Friends Status feature. Users can now create a curated list of trusted contacts who alone can view selected status updates.

When a status is shared with this exclusive group, a distinct coloured ring appears around the profile picture, signalling restricted visibility. This removes the need to repeatedly adjust privacy settings and allows users to share personal moments more confidently.

Two-Step Verification Becomes Essential

Security experts have long recommended enabling two-step verification, and WhatsApp is now pushing it more aggressively. By setting a six-digit PIN under account settings, users add an extra authentication layer.

Even if a fraudster manages to duplicate a SIM card, access to the WhatsApp account remains blocked without this PIN. As account takeover scams continue to rise, this feature is becoming a non-negotiable safety measure.

Chat Lock And App Lock Enhancements

Privacy within the app has also been strengthened. Users can now lock individual chats in addition to securing the entire application.

Locked chats move to a hidden folder that can only be opened via biometric authentication such as fingerprint or facial recognition. This proves extremely useful when sharing a phone with family members or colleagues, ensuring sensitive conversations remain confidential.

Advanced Call Privacy Protection

A notable risk linked to digital calls is IP tracking. Cybercriminals sometimes attempt to trace a user’s location through call connections.

The new Protect IP Address in Calls feature routes calls through secure servers, masking real location details. This significantly enhances WhatsApp security features and reduces the risk of surveillance or location-based scams.

Disappearing Messages For Minimal Data Footprint

To limit long-term data exposure, WhatsApp continues to refine its Disappearing Messages function. Users can now set auto-deletion timers ranging from 24 hours to 90 days.

Once activated, messages erase automatically from both sender and receiver devices. This is particularly useful for sensitive discussions, helping minimise the risk of old chats being leaked or misused.

Silence Unknown Callers

Spam and fraudulent international calls have become a growing nuisance. The Silence Unknown Callers feature tackles this problem directly.

When enabled, calls from unrecognised numbers do not ring the device. However, they are logged in the call history, allowing users to review them later. It strikes a balance between convenience and caution.

Control Over Auto Media Downloads

Malware hidden in images or videos remains a common hacking tactic. By turning off auto media download in storage settings, users can prevent unsolicited files from being saved automatically.

This not only reduces security risks but also helps conserve mobile data and storage space, making it a practical as well as protective tool.

A Stronger Push Towards Digital Safety

The February 2026 rollout reflects WhatsApp’s growing emphasis on user protection. With cyber fraud, identity theft, and spyware attacks becoming more sophisticated, these tools collectively create a multi-layered defence system.

Users who activate these settings significantly reduce their exposure to digital threats while gaining greater control over personal data, conversations, and media sharing.