WhatsApp Rolls Out High-Security Mode as EU Tightens Rules

WhatsApp has rolled out a High-Security Mode, a new option within the app that aims to bolster privacy controls for users who opt in. The feature promises extra protection around messages, account access, and suspicious activity, according to company announcements.

Regulators in Brussels have stepped up oversight: WhatsApp was added to the European Commission's list of very large online platforms. This places WhatsApp under tougher obligations under the Digital Services Act, especially for its channels feature, which the Commission notes surpassed 45 million monthly active EU users. The latest figures from the Commission's transparency reports also show channels had around 51.7 million monthly active users in the 27-nation bloc. The move signals that the EU intends to extend regulatory reach beyond traditional social networks to messaging services as well.

The Commission says platforms must assess systemic risks, respect fundamental rights, curb the spread of disinformation, protect privacy, and mitigate other harms. WhatsApp will have until late May to comply with the enhanced content rules. This enforcement comes amid other EU actions targeting Meta, including ongoing probes into how AI tools are rolled out and how transparency is maintained, as well as prior penalties on other platforms for related rule breaches.

In related business moves, reports indicate Meta is exploring premium subscriptions for its core services, a plan to keep basic access free while offering paid tiers for additional features. For users, the regulatory lift could bring stronger safeguards but also potential changes in how features are accessed and governed. Industry watchers say the era of light-touch governance for messaging apps may be ending as Europe tightens oversight of large platforms.

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