'Working on addressing misinformation on privacy policy,' says WA after govt order

New Delhi, January 21: Responding to centers' questions about its new policy, the messaging app wrote a letter back to the government saying the proposed change does not expand its ability to share user data with Facebook. It added that it is open to answering questions on the issue.

 

 

“We wish to reinforce that this update does not expand our ability to share data with Facebook. We aim to provide transparency and new options available to engage with businesses so they can serve their customers and grow,” WhatsApp said in its response.

 

 

Apps spokesperson said WhatsApp protects personal messages with end-to-end encryption, which ensures that neither WhatsApp nor Facebook can access them. “We are working to address misinformation and remain available to answer any questions,” the spokesperson said.

 

 

After noting companies the partial behavior towards India and Indian users, Centre o Tuesday sent a stern letter to the companies CEO. In the letter, the govt has asked the company to withdraw the new privacy policy saying the “unilateral changes” are unfair and unacceptable. It also questioned the company about its different policy for India and Indian citizens.

 

Apart from it, the IT ministry asked the platform 14 questions regarding these changes that would be “invasive” to the privacy of users. The ministry also told the platform to rethink its stance regarding its approach to the freedom of choice of users, data security as well as information privacy.

 

WhatsApp has been under fire for its recent controversial privacy policy update and users have been looking to move to alternative platforms.