WhatsApp Beta Introduces Restricted Chat to Block Media Downloads and Linked Devices
WhatsApp has started testing a new security option called Restricted Chat, which aims to shield sensitive conversations by limiting user actions and data exports on Android and iOS devices, antaranews.com reported. While basic end-to-end encryption remains active for all standard calls and messages, the optional feature introduces strict handling rules for specific threads chosen manually by users through individual chat info pages.
The testing phase deploys the feature selectively to participants in the WhatsApp beta program. Android users running beta version 2.26.36.4 and iOS users on version 26.39.10.20 can access the privacy toggle, according to testing details cited by topik.id. Because the tool is strictly optional, users must enable it manually for each conversation they want to protect, rather than applying blanket rules across the entire application.
Restricted Chat disables media downloads and Meta AI
Once a conversation has Restricted Chat enabled, WhatsApp displays an in-chat notification and immediately cuts off several standard app features. Incoming media files such as photos and videos no longer save automatically to the local device storage. Users also lose the ability to export the chat history or invoke Meta AI tools directly inside the restricted thread.
The feature also severs access to the conversation through linked desktop or web clients. WhatsApp stated that blocking linked devices prevents external clients or unauthorized software agents from reading the protected thread remotely. Despite these operational barriers, underlying end-to-end encryption for text and voice calls functions normally regardless of whether the restriction setting is toggled on.
Malware and social engineering threaten Indonesian users
While Restricted Chat targets in-app data movement, broader platform compromises continue to threaten Indonesian users through unauthorized account takeovers and social engineering tactics. CNBC Indonesia and IMBCNews reported that attackers frequently deploy malware, third-party apps, or weaponized web sessions to siphon personal data and drain financial accounts linked to incoming verification codes.
Users can identify active intrusions by watching for specific indicators of compromise:
- Receiving unexpected six-digit One-Time Password (OTP) text messages while attempting no new logins.
- Sudden automatic logouts on the primary phone caused by another device claiming the active session.
- Messages marked as read or sent automatically without the user’s knowledge.
- Unfamiliar profile statuses or sudden outgoing phone calls appearing in call logs.
- Unrecognized computer operating systems such as Windows or macOS listed under linked device menus.
Two-step verification blocks remote account hijacking
Security guides emphasize that prevention remains the most effective defense against remote account hijacking. Enabling two-step verification creates a mandatory six-digit PIN that blocks attackers from registering a stolen phone number even if they intercept an SMS verification code. Users can activate this protection directly inside the account settings menu.
For accounts already breached, experts recommend checking linked sessions immediately to terminate unauthorized web connections or reinstalling the mobile application. Victims who lose access entirely can email support@whatsapp.com using the exact keyword Lost/stolen: please deactivate my account
along with their international format phone number to temporarily freeze the profile for up to 30 days before permanent deletion.
Frequently Asked Questions About Restricted Chat
When will Restricted Chat become available to all WhatsApp users?
There is no official release date or public timeline for a stable rollout. The feature remains restricted to beta testers on Android and iOS while development and testing continue.
How do users activate Restricted Chat on an individual conversation?
Users must go manually to the specific chat info page within the WhatsApp beta application and toggle the option on. The setting does not apply automatically to every conversation.
Does enabling Restricted Chat disable end-to-end encryption for messages?
End-to-end encryption remains fully active for all messages and calls inside a restricted conversation. The feature only blocks secondary actions like media auto-saving, exports, and linked device access.
What should victims do if hackers lock them out of their WhatsApp accounts?
Victims must send an email to the official support address with the subject line requesting account deactivation and include their complete phone number in international format.