Whatsapp privacy issues 2020 Oct 15, 2025 · Read our privacy expert's review of the messaging app Whatsapp. This article provides a detailed chronological account of the historical reception and criticism of security and privacy features in the WhatsApp messaging service. We hope this guide will help you understand what information we collect, what we do with it, and how your privacy rights work. That analysis comes from security researchers at cryptocurrency wallet maker Zengo, who previously found a security weakness in the app's View Once feature – and now claim they’ve found Apr 29, 2022 · PDF | In January 2021, WhatsApp announced an update to their privacy policy, sparking an outcry that saw millions of users install other messaging apps | Find, read and cite all the research Nov 22, 2021 · WhatsApp has rewritten its privacy policy for European users after being handed a record €225 million fine by Irish data protection regulators earlier this year. However, its expansive feature set demands robust privacy configurations to safeguard data. S. developer. May 22, 2023 · The Facebook owner said it would appeal an order to stop sending data about European Union users to the United States. COM Whatsapp privacy issues: What’s changed and why it matters - Ting. Too bad privacy laws didn’t. May 16, 2023 · Updated May 2023: WhatsApp has introduced new privacy features since this story was first published in 2020. While WhatsApp can be used relatively safely, there are some privacy pitfalls lurking beneath the surface. 5 billion phone numbers, revealing how basic metadata can build a directory of accounts. Nov 13, 2024 · Facebook owner Meta Platforms must face trial in a U. Sep 7, 2021 · When Mark Zuckerberg unveiled a new “privacy-focused vision” for Facebook in March 2019, he cited the company’s global messaging service, WhatsApp, as a model. May 2, 2025 · How to lock down your privacy in WhatsApp WhatsApp is secure by default, but there’s more you can do. Recently, whatsapp has updated their privacy policies and acceptance/agree of these privacy policies are compulsory for all the users before 8th Fabruary, 2021 otherwise your whatsapp account will be deleted permanently. May 5, 2022 · In January 2021, WhatsApp announced an update to their privacy policy, sparking an outcry that saw millions of users install other messaging apps such as Telegram and Signal. Aug 20, 2025 · Fact Check- What is Meta AI? In April 2025, WhatsApp introduced Meta AI, a new optional feature that lets you chat with an AI inside the app. in/aaj-ki-tech-news-7-whatsapp-room-adware-attack/ Apr 7, 2025 · WhatsApp is testing a new “advanced chat privacy” option that lets you control whether others you’re chatting with can easily export your chats or automatically save media you send them Feb 25, 2020 · Understanding stronger confidentiality setup of WhatsApp, soon workplaces and schools also started their own WhatsApp groups. These changes are reflected below. regulator can seek to reduce the May 5, 2022 · In January 2021, WhatsApp announced an update to their privacy policy, sparking an outcry that saw millions of users install other messaging apps such as Telegram and Signal. Feb 19, 2021 · The messaging app is making a second attempt to convince users to accept its new privacy policy. Therefore, in this issue brief, we largely limit ourselves to evaluating the legality of Whatsapp The purpose of this study is to understand the privacy concerns and behavior of non-WEIRD populations in online messaging platforms. The controversial move may force business to explore other avenues beyond Facebook and WhatsApp as a way to connect with consumers more securely. 18 and WhatsApp Business for Android v2. Jul 30, 2020 · Read about the saga of Facebook's failures in ensuring privacy for user data, including how it relates to Cambridge Analytica, the GDPR, the Brexit campaign, and the 2016 US presidential election. WhatsApp is secure by design. android. 3 days ago · Pro Security WhatsApp security flaw lets experts scrape 3. You can talk to Meta AI directly or even use it in group chats to ask questions, get quick suggestions, create images, explore topics, or forward messages for extra details. Mar 23, 2019 · Download 10th Math Solution For Free!!! https://play. Strengthening existing requirements: Some privacy program provisions in the 2020 order would be strengthened, such as those related to privacy review, third-party monitoring, data inventory and access controls, and employee training. And, worse, WhatsApp’s nightmare start to 2021 has exposed a Sep 2, 2021 · The issues involved were highly technical, including whether WhatsApp supplied enough information to users about how their data was processed and if its privacy policies were clear enough. The service famously offers “end-to-end encryption Jun 16, 2025 · Is WhatsApp safe? Yes, WhatsApp can be safe to use, as long as you take some steps to protect your privacy and security. WhatsApp Security Advisories At WhatsApp, privacy and security is in our DNA. Mar 6, 2023 · Meta Platforms' WhatsApp has agreed to be more transparent about changes to its privacy policy introduced in 2021, the European Commission said on Monday, following complaints from consumer bodies Dev, Morino, and Camp (2020) conducted a comparative study of WhatsApp privacy issues and attitudes among Saudi and Indian users. Feb 9, 2024 · WhatsApp vs Telegram vs Signal Comparison sheds light on these popular messaging apps, their services, features, security and privacy. Analysis of surveys (n = 674) of WhatsApp users in Saudi Arabia and India revealed that Saudis had significantly higher concerns about being contacted by strangers. This presented a rare opportunity to study users’ experiences when trying to leave the world's most popular communication app. [13][14] It allows users to send text messages, voice messages, and video messages, [15] make voice and video calls, and share images, documents, user locations, and other content. By staying informed, employing security features, and adopting best practices, users can enjoy the benefits of WhatsApp while safeguarding their privacy and data. By Parumita Pal and Hrishav Kumar* Introduction The switch from traditional brick-and-mortar business models to rapidly a evolving digital mode of doing business has impacted the way the Competition Commission of India (“CCI”) has been looking at cases involving data privacy and protection issues. The chief justice of Brazil's Supreme Court has struck down a lower court decision that blocked the WhatsApp messaging service nationwide for several hours Tuesday, affecting almost 100 million users. The app is encrypted by default with end-to-end encryption for both messages and calls, which is good for your privacy. Sep 10, 2022 · Read more: What is WhatsApp? The ultimate guide to getting started WhatsApp announced changes to its privacy policy in January 2021 which ignited a data security and privacy conversation. First they ask to chat, than to respond to work related issues when you are off. When you use WhatsApp, we collect some limited information about you. 5 billion phone numbers, profile photos, and texts, alarming users about their privacy. Jan 19, 2023 · WhatsApp has led the industry on private messaging by providing end-to-end encryption and layers of privacy that protect people. FBI Test So, earlier this year the FBI rolled out an app called FitTest that is aimed at helping users achieve the physical shape of an FBI special agent. WhatsApp dangers on mobile devices? May 1, 2020 · Abstract. We evaluate the costs and benefits of three approaches to managing misinformation: intermediary liability reform, changes to platform design, and Jan 25, 2022 · Is WhatsApp safe? We asked the experts if you should be using it in 2022 Dec 23, 2020 · The year we gave up on privacy Our lives moved online in 2020. T. Apr 13, 2025 · The FTC claims that after buying Instagram and WhatsApp, Facebook had fewer apps nipping at its heels and got away with providing less data privacy to users and more buggy and expensive services Jan 12, 2021 · WhatsApp Clarifies New Policy After a while, the company has finally clarified the update, specifically what and what the app can't do in hopes of retaining its users. Need to contact WhatsApp? Look here for our different contact forms to reach WhatsApp support. The decisions by the CCI in the past few years indicate how the CCI has been slowly Apr 24, 2025 · WhatsApp issues major update to stop people downloading chats and photos Advanced Chat Privacy is available on the latest version of the messaging app. WhatsApp (officially WhatsApp Messenger), owned by Meta Platforms, is an American social media, instant messaging (IM), and Voice over IP (VoIP) service accessible via desktop and mobile app. Two of the most popular alternatives are Signal and Telegram, but which of the three Jul 31, 2020 · Adware attack on android, Pay with fingerprint, Read this article to get all updates. Are you going to get paid for the time you make yourself available to "chat" while off? Dec 11, 2024 · FBI warns all users to stop texting—but secure messaging apps must also be changed. Jan 9, 2025 · WhatsApp was the app of choice for many, but concerns over privacy have seen people jump ship in recent years. Nov 22, 2024 · The Competition Commission of India (CCI) on Monday, November 18, concluded its investigation of WhatsApp’s 2021 privacy policy update, imposing a fine of Rs 213. 18 may have allowed a third party with access to the device’s external storage to read cached TLS material. Dec 9, 2020 · The complaint alleges that, by 2012, WhatsApp had emerged as the clear global “category leader” in mobile messaging. [16][17] The service Sep 16, 2025 · Is WhatsApp safe? Learn how to use WhatsApp safely with our security and privacy tips. Jan 4, 2021 · WhatsApp Messenger: More than 2 billion people in over 180 countries use WhatsApp to stay in touch with friends and family, anytime and anywhere. May 30, 2025 · The landmark trial between WhatsApp and NSO Group unearthed several new revelations. Find out how to stay safe on WhatsApp. 20. We updated our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy on January 2021 | WhatsApp Help Center Jun 29, 2021 · 󰍸 󰤦 󰤧 Ting Roaring Fork Feb 11, 2021󰞋󱟠 󰟝 Using WhatsApp to keep in contact with your loved ones? Get educated about their latest privacy update → TING. Close up WhatsApp logo with the security thumb print and lock icon isolated on black background. Optional features like chat lock, profile photo privacy, app lock, view once messages, and status privacy add extra layers of protection to your account. Better switch to more secure messaging services. So that app would be a better solution for both of you. Aug 7, 2025 · How secure will WhatsApp be in 2025? Read everything you need to know about privacy, GDPR, metadata, and secure alternatives for private users and businesses. Experts talk about WhatsApp privacy issues Experts have warned of privacy concerns for WhatsApp users on iPhone. regulator can seek to reduce the Sep 8, 2025 · Roughly 1,500 WhatsApp employees had unrestricted access to sensitive user data, which was a violation of the company’s 2020 privacy settlement with the F. There is a Seen option too. google. Jan 21, 2021 · The missing signal! January 21, 2021, 4:18 PM IST While ‘Signal’ has a new meaning after the WhatsApp privacy issues, I’d focus on the rudimentary signals in the policy making- so basic yet Answering your questions about WhatsApp’s January 2021 Privacy Policy update | WhatsApp Help Center Learn how to use WhatsApp, fix a problem, and get answers to your questions. Here’s what you need to know. We conducted surveys in February and May with 1525 WhatsApp users from Mexico, Spain, South The change would expand the limits on the use of facial recognition technology included in the 2020 order. Jul 14, 2020 · The issues started at around 4PM ET and prevented WhatsApp users from sending or receiving messages on the service for nearly an hour. 5 days ago · A major WhatsApp vulnerability let researchers access 3. According to TechRadar May 16, 2023 · Updated May 2023: WhatsApp has introduced new privacy features since this story was first published in 2020. C. Sep 12, 2025 · He claims WhatsApp violated a 2020 FTC privacy order with weak data security, broad engineer access to user data, poor monitoring and inability to detect breaches. Sep 16, 2025 · Is WhatsApp safe? Learn how to use WhatsApp safely with our security and privacy tips. 4. We conducted surveys in February and May with 1525 WhatsApp users from Mexico, Spain Oct 18, 2025 · As of October 2025, Meta's WhatsApp remained the most popular messenger by monthly active users. This could have happened only if several events occurred together in sequence, including receiving an animated sticker while placing a WhatsApp video call on hold. It’s also owned by Facebook which means Facebook can access some data WhatsApp collects on you for specified purposes, which may be bad for your privacy May 27, 2021 · The country’s “traceability” requirement would undermine the privacy of the encrypted messaging app’s users far beyond its borders. 111 could have resulted in memory corruption, crashes and potentially code execution. The CCI passed a suo moto order directing an investigation into Whatsapp for alleged abuse of dominance as per the Competition Act, 2002 (‘the Act’) with respect to its new 2021 updated Dec 15, 2024 · Find out about the numerous security features of WhatsApp, as well as its advantages and disadvantages, and assess its dependability. Nov 27, 2023 · Meta Platforms , which owns WhatsApp, Instagram and Facebook, lost the latest round of a court battle over privacy on Monday after a federal judge ruled a U. In contrast, Indians showed significantly higher concerns with respect to social contact from Jun 18, 2021 · On 24 th January 2021, the Competition Commission of India (‘CCI’) joined an exclusive club of competition law regulators around the world to initiate action in the area of privacy and competition law. Here are some features we've designed to keep your WhatsApp account safe. Dec 23, 2024 · The court’s decision resolves all liability issues, leaving only the matter of damages to be determined at trial. Feb 5, 2020 · Facebook has patched a vulnerability in WhatsApp Desktop that could allow an attacker to launch cross-site scripting (XSS) attacks and access files from the victim’s system when paired with WhatsApp for iPhone Jul 2, 2020 · We would like to show you a description here but the site won’t allow us. 7 billion users globally, WhatsApp remains a critical platform for personal and business communication. Sep 4, 2020 · New transparency-focused WhatsApp security site reveals six previously undisclosed vulnerabilities, five of them critical. It’s not just privacy advocates who are freaking out over Facebook’s decision to extract user data from its popular WhatsApp messaging service. https://techtrekker. Answering your questions about WhatsApp’s January 2021 Privacy Policy update | WhatsApp Help Center WhatsApp is one of the most popular messaging apps in the world with around 2 billion (yes, billion) users worldwide. Aug 29, 2021 · Are WhatsApp calls, messages, notifications, backup, and more not working or failing? Look at all the best solutions to fix these WhatsApp issues. Feb 14, 2023 · WhatsApp also includes safety and security features in the privacy settings, such as controlling who sees your information (such as last seen, profile picture, or status). WhatsApp is free and offers simple, secure, reliable messaging and calling, available on phones all over the world. , according to the suit. indiansagar. The petitioner, a software engineer, claimed the messaging app violates the IT Rules Oct 16, 2024 · Updated An analysis of Meta's WhatsApp messaging software reveals that it may expose which operating system a user is running, and their device setup information – including the number of linked devices. Through a case study of lynchings in India that are perceived to have been catalyzed by misinformation on WhatsApp, this article explores how policymakers can mitigate social media misinformation without compromising public discourse. Sep 8, 2021 · Yesterday, independent newsroom ProPublica published a detailed piece examining the popular WhatsApp messaging platform’s privacy claims. To keep you safe, we've created an end-to-end encrypted messaging and calling experience with world-class security, and built innovative tools that put you in control. 111 and WhatsApp Business for iOS prior to v2. This presented a rare opportunity to study users’ experiences when trying to leave the world’s most popular communication app. Jan 6, 2025 · Table 1 – Chronological Timeline of Dispute To assess Meta’s conduct, the CCI identified two relevant markets (in the specific context of India) - the market for Over-The-Top (OTT) messaging applications on smartphones alongside the market for online display advertising. Apr 28, 2022 · In January 2021, WhatsApp announced an update to their privacy policy, sparking an outcry that saw millions of users install other messaging apps such as Telegram and Signal. This guide dissects WhatsApp’s 2025 privacy architecture, offering actionable strategies to secure messages, media, and business interactions. Not related to privacy, but I would try to resist those kinds of requests. CVE-2020-1909 A use-after-free in a logging library in WhatsApp for iOS prior to v2. Presently almost all organizations, schools and educational institutes have their respective division /unit/team-based WhatsApp groups. 5 days ago · Austrian researchers used a WhatsApp contact-lookup flaw to map 3. Unlock the secrets of WhatsApp Business data privacy. . Most of them relate to WhatsApp’s ownership. Nov 14, 2024 · The Indian Supreme Court of India rejected a petition to outlaw WhatsApp due to privacy and security concerns. You can also clear your WhatsApp cache to free up storage space on your device. Again, according to the complaint, Facebook chose to buy an emerging threat rather than compete, and announced an agreement in February 2014 to acquire WhatsApp for $19 billion. Navigate GDPR challenges and discover best practices for secure organisational communication. Find out how safe WhatsApp is. CVE-2021-24027 A cache configuration issue prior to WhatsApp for Android v2. [16][17] The service CVE-2021-24027 A cache configuration issue prior to WhatsApp for Android v2. With every new feature and product we build, we carefully consider the security implications for people that rely on WhatsApp to safely have private conversations. We are committed to maintaining the highest standards of security for two billion users around the world. Nov 19, 2024 · CCI slaps Rs 213 crore fine on Meta over WhatsApp’s 2021 privacy policy update In January 2021, WhatsApp had notified users that it was updating its privacy policy – which was mandatory for them to accept – with an expanded scope of data collection and data sharing between Meta companies. In a recent advisory, the agency warned that this vulnerability could be exploited by hackers to steal personal data or even take full control of the user’s computer. Nov 30, 2024 · If you use WhatsApp, there are some security and privacy issues you should be aware of. 5 billion users, marking one of the most significant data leaks ever documented. Free up storage space Delete old or unused media such as large video files from your device storage to free up space. 6 days ago · By plugging tens of billions of phone numbers into WhatsApp’s contact discovery tool, researchers found “the most extensive exposure of phone numbers” ever—along with profile photos and more. Jan 27, 2021 · Because the chat app doesn't encrypt conversations by default—or at all for group chats—security professionals often warn against it. Learn about our privacy features to understand how we ensure your conversations remain private. Feb 18, 2025 · WhatsApp is now a Very Large platform in the EU, and will face tougher regulation Users of EU-designated Very Large Online Platforms get specific rights when it comes to the use of their data. Concerns have surfaced over how much data Whatsapp shares with its parent company, Meta. Therefore, in this issue brief, we largely limit ourselves to evaluating the legality of Whatsapp WhatsApp privacy and security is more than just end-to-end encryption. 21. The findings show that there are differences and similarities Nov 6, 2023 · Adding to it, approximately 64% of users have reported automatically change in the Last Seen Settings, 26 % of users have complained about connection issues, and 8 % of users faced issues while login to WhatsApp. 14 crore on the Meta-owned messaging giant and ordering it to implement certain behavioural changes within the next three months. Sep 3, 2024 · The security system utilized by WhatsApp does not give rise to any issues regarding the privacy of users' data. Jul 7, 2012 · WhatsApp Messenger: More than 2 billion people in over 180 countries use WhatsApp to stay in touch with friends and family, anytime and anywhere. com/store/apps/details?id=com. Nov 22, 2021 · WhatsApp is rewriting policies to comply with regulator demands after being issued an enormous fine. May 13, 2021 · Still, when WhatsApp’s privacy update was first announced, the Competition Commission of India called for an investigation, condemning the update’s compulsory nature. While it is evident the Indian competition landscape will benefit from revisiting the existing law and policy framework to reign in Big technology companies, we argue that the change in Whatsapp’s privacy policy in 2021 can be held anti-competitive using legal provisions as they presently stand. Users are suggested to update their WhatsApp Desktop app to the latest version Jul 20, 2020 · WhatsApp Messenger: More than 2 billion people in over 180 countries use WhatsApp to stay in touch with friends and family, anytime and anywhere. Federal Trade Commission lawsuit seeking its break-up over claims that it bought Instagram and WhatsApp to crush emerging competition in Jan 25, 2024 · WhatsApp remains a widely used and convenient messaging platform, but users must be proactive in managing and mitigating potential security risks. The Complete Guide Nov 3, 2022 · On 14 October 2022, the Supreme Court of India dismissed appeals filed by WhatsApp LLC (WhatsApp) and Facebook Inc (now Meta) challenging the jurisdiction of the Competition Commission of India Apr 10, 2025 · India’s cybersecurity agency CERT-In (Computer Emergency Response Team) has issued a high-severity security alert for WhatsApp Desktop users. In a How do social media privacy issues put users at risk? Explore how Tulane University’s master’s in cybersecurity management launches careers in IT security. We … Jim Koohyar Biniyaz November 16, 2020 © 2022 Jul 20, 2020 · We also explain the steps we take to protect your privacy – like building WhatsApp so delivered messages aren’t stored and giving you control over who you communicate with on our Services. So why are Indians talking about quitting it now? Thousands of Indians, young and old, have been trying out messenger apps like Signal and While it is evident the Indian competition landscape will benefit from revisiting the existing law and policy framework to reign in Big technology companies, we argue that the change in Whatsapp’s privacy policy in 2021 can be held anti-competitive using legal provisions as they presently stand. The lawsuit, filed in 2019, alleged that NSO used WhatsApp’s servers to deliver Pegasus spyware to approximately 1,400 devices worldwide. We updated our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy on January 2021 | WhatsApp Help Center Jan 13, 2021 · social media WhatsApp privacy concerns are not new. Jan 12, 2021 · WhatsApp is facing a privacy reckoning, largely due to Facebook’s poor reputation. How can we help you? Contact AT&T by phone or live chat to order new service, track orders, and get customer service, billing and tech support. Acknowledging that “we don WhatsApp Security Advisories At WhatsApp, privacy and security is in our DNA. May 6, 2021 · [glossary_exclude] Whatsapp [/glossary_exclude] privacy issues are raising to the greater extent as the facebook becomes its parent company. It is our policy to notify developers and providers of mobile operating systems about security issues that WhatsApp may identify. Feb 16, 2025 · With over 2. Dec 21, 2020 · Just Google “Whatsapp privacy issues 2020”, and you’ll immediately understand why we advise against using this messenger application. a10mathsolution WhatsApp Security Advisories At WhatsApp, privacy and security is in our DNA. Furthermore, it was established that Meta enjoys dominance in the former, based on a multitude of factors such as Mar 20, 2025 · WhatsApp says it has fixed a zero-day vulnerability which was apparently used by nation-states to spy on journalists, dissidents, political opponents, and others. com WhatsApp also relies on numerous code libraries developed by third parties for various features and we will annotate security updates for these libraries so other developers can make necessary updates. 5 days ago · A critical security flaw in WhatsApp has allowed researchers to expose the phone numbers of 3. Nov 8, 2021 · PENANG, MALAYSIA - JUNE 6, 2018: WhatsApp security and privacy issues. Dec 4, 2023 · WhatsApp Messenger: More than 2 billion people in over 180 countries use WhatsApp to stay in touch with friends and family, anytime and anywhere. Instead, they take place during the process of creating metadata and utilizing the synch function that the app provides. The feature is still rolling out, so availability may differ depending on your Nov 6, 2023 · Adding to it, approximately 64% of users have reported automatically change in the Last Seen Settings, 26 % of users have complained about connection issues, and 8 % of users faced issues while login to WhatsApp. Sep 11, 2025 · WhatsApp's ex-security chief is suing Meta over privacy and security concerns, adding to recent whistleblower claims. Mar 6, 2021 · WhatsApp may have ridden out its privacy backlash, but there will be more to come as some of you lose access to your accounts. 5 billion user numbers - here's what we know, and how to stay safe WhatsApp is committed to protecting your data.