How to Improve WhatsApp Security
This guide reflects WhatsApp settings available in February 2026. Features and menu locations may change over time. If a setting described below is not visible on your device, you may need to update the WhatsApp application through your app store.
WhatsApp messages are encrypted by default. However, encryption alone does not prevent account takeover, SIM swap attacks, or social engineering. Security depends on how your account, device, and mobile number are configured.
This guide explains practical steps that reduce exposure and limit risk.
Enable Two-step verification
Go to Settings, then Account, then Two-step verification.
Set a six digit PIN and add a recovery email address.
This adds an additional layer of protection if someone attempts to register your number on another device.
Protect Your SIM Card
Many WhatsApp compromises happen through SIM swap attacks.
Contact your mobile provider and request:
SIM swap protection
Port out restrictions
Account level security PIN
If someone gains control of your number, they may attempt to reset messaging and banking accounts linked to it.
Enable End to End Encrypted Backups
WhatsApp chats are encrypted, but cloud backups are not encrypted unless you enable this feature.
Go to Settings, Chats, then Chat Backup.
Enable End to End Encrypted Backup and set a strong password stored securely.
Without this setting, a compromised cloud account may expose chat history.
Review Privacy Settings
Go to Settings, then Privacy.
Recommended stricter settings:
Last Seen and Online set to Nobody
Profile Photo set to My Contacts
About set to My Contacts
Groups set to My Contacts except
Silence Unknown Callers enabled
These settings reduce exposure to spam and unsolicited contact.
Use Strict Account Settings
WhatsApp has introduced a feature called Strict Account Settings to reduce exposure to targeted attacks.
When enabled, it applies more restrictive controls, including:
Blocking certain interactions from unknown contacts
Restricting group invitations
Silencing unknown callers
Enforcing stronger privacy defaults
This setting may limit some app behaviour, but it reduces attack surface.
If available, navigate to:
Settings, Privacy, Advanced, Strict Account Settings.
Disable Automatic Media Downloads
Go to Settings, then Storage and Data.
Disable automatic downloads for photos, videos, and documents.
Malicious files are sometimes distributed through messaging platforms. Manual download reduces exposure.
Review Linked Devices
Go to Settings, then Linked Devices.
Remove any session you do not recognise. Avoid leaving WhatsApp Web open on shared or public computers.
Use App Lock and Device Security
Enable biometric app lock within WhatsApp.
Also ensure:
Strong device unlock PIN
Automatic screen lock
Operating system updates installed promptly
App security depends on overall device security.
Separate Business and Personal Use
If WhatsApp is used for business communication:
Use a dedicated number where possible
Avoid reusing the number for financial authentication
Limit unnecessary public exposure
Separation reduces overall risk.
Be Aware of Social Engineering
Most compromises occur through deception rather than technical exploits.
Examples include:
Impersonation messages
Fake delivery notifications
Investment scams
Messages requesting urgent payments
Always verify sensitive requests through a separate communication channel.
Related Guidance
If your concern extends beyond messaging security, see our guide on protecting mobile phones and sensitive data if stolen.
Summary
WhatsApp security is based on layered protection. Encryption protects message content, but account configuration, SIM protection, and device security are equally important.
Reviewing settings periodically helps ensure protection remains aligned with current app capabilities.
No single setting is sufficient on its own.