[Update: Misleading information about location access] WhatsApp highlights how it

Update (01/12/2021 @ 06:10 ET): WhatsApp’s privacy policy is vague about collecting and using shared location information, and sharing it with Facebook. Scroll to the bottom for more information. The article as published on January 12, 2021, is preserved below.

WhatsApp recently updated its terms and privacy policy to mandate data-sharing with all companies in the Facebook family. This created quite a stir among WhatsApp users worldwide, with many migrating to alternatives like Signal and Telegram. The policy change has also raised some concerns about Facebook’s agenda, and it has birthed some misleading rumors that have accelerated the outflow of users. In an attempt to clear the air, WhatsApp has now published a response to some of the most frequently asked questions about its privacy measures and data-sharing policy.

The Facebook-owned messenger recently updated its FAQ section with new responses highlighting how it will continue to protect private messages, despite some rumors stating otherwise. It states that the policy update “does not affect the privacy of your messages with friends or family in any way. Instead, this update includes changes related to messaging a business on WhatsApp, which is optional, and provides further transparency about how we collect and use data.”

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A new infographic shared by the company highlights that WhatsApp cannot see private messages or hear calls and, therefore, neither can Facebook. It also reveals that WhatsApp doesn’t keep logs of who users are messaging or calling, it can’t see the shared location, doesn’t share contact info with Facebook, and that WhatsApp groups remain private.

As far as conversations with businesses are concerned, WhatsApp clarified that some businesses on the platform will make use of Facebook’s hosting services to manage WhatsApp chats. Such businesses will be able to use the information for their own marketing purposes, like running targeted ads on Facebook. To ensure users know when they’re communicating with such a business, WhatsApp will clearly label the conversation in the app. The company further adds that it will utilize users’ shopping activity to personalize their Shops experience, and if users interact with an ad on the platform, Facebook may “use the way you interact with these ads to personalize the ads you see on Facebook.”

While these responses do address some of the rumors floating around on various social media platforms (including WhatsApp), it may not be enough to sway public opinion. What’s your take on this issue? Will you continue using WhatsApp, or will you opt for other messengers like Signal or Telegram after the new policy changes go into effect next month? Share your thoughts in the comments section below.