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“We want to address some rumours”: WhatsApp issues clarification on privacy policy row

TAS News Service

info@thearabianstories.com

Tuesday, January 12, 2021

MUSCAT: Messaging App WhatsApp on Tuesday issues clarification on its recently issued privacy policy update and confirmed that the latest change will not affect the privacy of messages send to friends and family amid rumours over reports of users alleging leak of data.

In a statement issued, WhatsApp said: “We recently updated our Privacy Policy and we have received many thoughtful questions. With some of the rumors going around, we want to answer some of the common questions we have received. We go to great lengths to build WhatsApp in a way that helps people communicate privately.”

“We can’t see your private messages or hear your calls, and neither can Facebook: Neither WhatsApp nor Facebook can read your messages or hear your calls with your friends, family, and co-workers on WhatsApp. Whatever you share, it stays between you. That’s because your personal messages are protected by end-to-end encryption. We will never weaken this security and we clearly label each chat so you know our commitment,” WhatsApp said in a statement.

It further shared the list of information “NOT” shared with Facebook.

  • WhatsApp cannot see your private messages or hear your calls and neither can Facebook.
  • WhatsApp does keep logs of who everyone is messaging or calling.
  • WhatsApp cannot see your shared location and neither can Facebook.
  • WhatsApp does not share your contacts with Facebook.
  • WhatsApp groups remains private.
  • You can set your messages to disappear.
  • You can download your data.

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