WhatsApp is rolling out a new security feature that gives users stronger protection against sophisticated cyberattacks, Meta announced in late January 2026. The feature — called Strict Account Settings — acts like a lockdown mode that sharply limits how unknown contacts can interact with a user’s account. Meta says this advanced setting is especially useful for people who may be the target of highly targeted attacks, such as journalists, activists or public figures. While WhatsApp already uses strong end-to-end encryption — meaning messages and calls are secured so only communicating users can read them — the new feature raises the bar even further for those at risk. “When enabled, Strict Account Settings automatically pushes your account into the most restrictive configuration and reduces risk,” WhatsApp explained in its official announcement. “This helps protect you from the most sophisticated cyber threats.” Once Strict Account Settings is activated, several defensive measures kick in: Media and attachments from unknown contacts are blocked, reducing exposure to dangerous files. Calls from numbers not in your contacts are silenced, limiting potential voice-based attacks. Link previews from unknown senders are disabled, helping prevent phishing via malicious URLs. Group invites from strangers are restricted, preventing unknown users from adding you into new chats. Profile visibility like last-seen status, profile photo and about info is limited to contacts only. These defenses work together to tighten security without requiring specialized tools. The feature can be enabled by navigating to Settings → Privacy → Advanced inside WhatsApp on a primary smartphone device. It cannot be activated via WhatsApp Web or desktop apps. Security experts have noted that while WhatsApp’s base layer of encryption already protects conversations from external interception, certain cyberattacks — including spyware and phishing campaigns — still pose risks through attachments, links and unsolicited interactions. Lockdown-style modes like this are becoming more common; Apple’s Lockdown Mode and Android’s Advanced Protection Mode similarly restrict features to maximize safety for high-risk users. WhatsApp’s rollout of Strict Account Settings comes at a time when digital privacy and messaging security remain top global concerns. With billions of users relying on the platform for personal and professional communication, enhanced native protections help reduce exposure to emerging threats. While extra protection may limit some everyday functionality for example, fewer media previews or restricted group invites. The trade-off gives peace of mind for those who need it most.
PTCL Submits Merger Application to PTA for Telenor Pakistan and Ufone
Pakistan Telecommunication Company Limited has formally moved to reshape the country’s telecom landscape by applying for regulatory approval to merge Telenor Pakistan with Ufone, according to official sources. The application has been submitted to the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority, marking the first major regulatory step toward consolidating PTCL’s mobile operations following its recent acquisition of Telenor Pakistan and Orion. The proposed merger aims to integrate Telenor’s assets and subscriber base with Ufone’s existing network infrastructure. Industry sources say the move is designed to strengthen PTCL Group’s position in the mobile segment by improving operational efficiency, network reach, and service quality. The PTA is now expected to conduct a detailed review of the proposal, a process that sources say could take between six to eight weeks. During this period, the regulator will examine the combined entity’s business plan, tower and network infrastructure, and the consolidation of spectrum holdings and operating licenses. A key focus of the review will be the merger’s impact on market competition and consumer interests. The authority is expected to closely assess spectrum concentration and ensure that the deal does not distort competition within Pakistan’s telecom sector. If the PTA grants approval, the transaction will then move to the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan for further regulatory clearance. The final step will require approval from the court through a “Scheme of Arrangement,” a mandatory legal process to complete the merger. Sources familiar with the matter estimate that the full regulatory and legal process could take up to five to six months before the merger is formally concluded. Telecom industry experts view the consolidation as a potentially transformative development. They believe the merger could lead to cost savings, better network coverage, and improved service offerings for customers. At the same time, analysts say the move may intensify competition among the remaining telecom operators, accelerating changes across the sector.
T20 World Cup 2026: Visa Delays, Team Withdrawal and Health Scare Expose India’s Hosting Failures
The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, scheduled to be held from February 7 to March 8, 2026, and co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka, has been surrounded by a series of off-field controversies in the build-up to the tournament, raising questions about logistics, governance, and preparedness. Pakistan’s India Travel Stance Shapes Tournament Planning Pakistan’s participation in the tournament has once again been influenced by its long-standing position of not travelling to India due to strained bilateral relations. As a result, Pakistan’s matches have been scheduled in Sri Lanka, continuing the neutral-venue arrangement previously adopted by the International Cricket Council for ICC events hosted in India. While this decision ensures Pakistan’s participation, it has also reinforced the perception that the tournament’s operational planning is being shaped as much by geopolitical realities as by sporting considerations. Bangladesh Refusal Leads to Scotland’s Inclusion A major controversy emerged when Bangladesh refused to travel to India for its scheduled matches, citing security concerns. According to Reuters, Bangladesh requested that its matches be relocated to Sri Lanka, the co-host nation. The ICC, however, rejected the request after stating that independent security assessments had found no credible threat. Following Bangladesh’s continued refusal, the ICC announced on January 24, 2026, that Scotland would replace Bangladesh in the tournament. The move clarified that Scotland’s inclusion was not part of an expansion of the event, but rather a replacement necessitated by Bangladesh’s non-participation. Visa Delays Raise Concerns for Players of Pakistani Heritage Visa-related delays emerged as another significant point of concern in the build-up to the tournament, particularly affecting players with Pakistani heritage. According to ESPNcricinfo, Scotland received assurances from the ICC that efforts were under way to facilitate visas for its squad, yet uncertainty persisted as the tournament approached. Attention was specifically drawn to Safyaan Sharif, whose situation became emblematic of the broader issue. Sharif, a Scotland international of Pakistani heritage, was reported to be awaiting visa clearance, raising concerns within the Scotland camp about preparation, travel timelines, and potential last-minute disruptions. The issue has not been limited to a single player or team. Reports have indicated that visa delays have affected individuals of Pakistani origin involved in cricketing activities linked to India in various contexts, including players representing other countries and officials connected to ICC events. These delays have contributed to unease among teams and boards ahead of a major international tournament partially hosted in India. While no official discrimination has been alleged by the ICC, the recurring visa uncertainties have highlighted the administrative challenges faced by players with Pakistani backgrounds when travelling to India. The situation has also drawn attention to the reliance on diplomatic and consular processes for sporting participation in politically sensitive environments. For the ICC, the matter has added another layer of complexity to tournament operations. Although assurances have been provided regarding visa facilitation, the delays have reinforced concerns about equal access, logistical fairness, and timely clearances for all participating players — particularly in an event that is meant to operate under neutral and inclusive principles. Accreditation Dispute Involving Bangladeshi Journalists The controversy extended beyond players to media access. Bangladeshi outlets reported that journalists seeking to cover the tournament were denied accreditation. The Daily Star reported that accreditation applications from Bangladeshi journalists had been rejected. Indian media later carried the ICC’s response, which described the situation as a reworking of the accreditation process following criticism and public backlash. Nipah Virus Adds a Public Health Dimension Adding to the list of concerns, reports of Nipah virus cases in India have introduced a public health dimension to the tournament’s lead-up. UK government health monitoring reported two confirmed Nipah cases on January 13, 2026, in Kolkata, with investigations ongoing. International health reporting has highlighted heightened alert measures and the virus’s high fatality risk, as cited by global health authorities. At present, however, the situation remains classified as a health concern requiring vigilance, rather than a disruption to the tournament. No official announcement has been made indicating any alteration to the event’s schedule due to the outbreak. While the tournament is set to proceed as scheduled, the narrative surrounding the T20 World Cup 2026 has already been shaped by a series of controversies that continue to draw scrutiny from cricket boards, players, and media organisations worldwide.
