WhatsApp Update 2026: WhatsApp is not just a messaging app these days; it has become our digital identity. But as its user base grows, scammers and hackers are also eyeing it. With the latest February 2026 update, WhatsApp has introduced some ‘lockdown-style’ features that can keep your data completely secure. Here, we share information about 8 such WhatsApp features that you should activate today.
Strict Account Settings
This is the biggest security update of 2026. It can be enabled by going to Settings > Privacy > Advanced. When activated, this feature automatically blocks all media files and attachments from unknown numbers. It is specifically designed to protect journalists and public figures from sophisticated cyberattacks (such as spyware).
Close Friends Status
Following Instagram, WhatsApp has now introduced a ‘Close Friends’ feature for status. You no longer need to change privacy settings every time; you can create your own exclusive list. When you post a status in this mode, a different colored ring will appear around your profile, ensuring that only trusted people can access your personal photos.
Two-Step Verification
This is a ‘digital lock’ on your account. Turn it on by going to Settings > Account and setting a 6-digit PIN. WhatsApp will make this even more mandatory in 2026. Even if someone clones your SIM, they won’t be able to access your WhatsApp without this PIN.
Chat Lock & App Lock
You can now lock specific sensitive chats in addition to locking the entire app. Locking a chat puts it in a hidden folder that can only be opened with your biometrics (fingerprint or Face ID). This feature is extremely useful when you have to give your phone to someone.
Advanced Call Privacy
Scammers often try to track your location through WhatsApp calls. By turning on ‘Protect IP Address in Calls’ in Settings > Privacy > Advanced, your calls go through WhatsApp’s servers, preventing the other party from knowing your true location and IP address.
Disappearing Messages
If you want to ensure your conversations have no digital footprint, turn this feature on. You can set a time period of 24 hours, 7 days, or 90 days, after which messages will automatically be deleted from both sides. This significantly reduces the risk of old data being leaked.
Silence Unknown Callers
This is the most effective way to avoid the increasing number of international fraudulent calls on WhatsApp. Go to Settings > Privacy > Calls and turn this option on. Calls from unknown numbers will not ring your phone, but they will still appear in your call list, so you can check who the call was from.
Turn off Auto Media Download
Hackers often send malicious code hidden in photo or video files, which activates as soon as they are saved to your phone. Go to Settings > Storage and Data and turn off auto-download. This will not only save your data, but you’ll only download files you know and recognize.
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Vikram Singh
Author at TimesBull covering breaking news and current affairs.
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