May 11, 2021
Article in English only
WhatsApp Updating Its Privacy Policy from May 15, 2021
Understanding the 2021 update and exploring privacy-focused messaging apps
In early January 2021, WhatsApp users worldwide received a notice about updates to the platform’s Terms of Serviceand Privacy Policy. By accepting these new terms, users agreed to policies effective from May 15, 2021.
The key change concerned mandatory data sharing with Facebook, regardless of whether the user had a Facebook account. The stated aim was to improve targeted advertising across Facebook platforms using WhatsApp account data.
Previously, WhatsApp’s privacy policy allowed users to opt out of such sharing. The updated version removed that choice, making the process compulsory.
What Changed in WhatsApp’s Privacy Policy
For clarity, WhatsApp had already been sharing certain user data with Facebook, though this was optional. According to WhatsApp’s FAQ, the shared data includes:
- Account registration information (e.g., phone number)
- Transaction data
- Service-related information
- Interaction data (how users engage with others, including businesses)
- Device information (e.g., model details, IP address)
- Other data specified in the “Information We Collect” section of the Privacy Policy
The key difference after this update is obligation. Users refusing to accept the new terms risk losing access to WhatsApp, and accounts inactive for 120 days are automatically deleted.
Why WhatsApp Made This Change
The new “Affiliated Companies” section explains that WhatsApp receives and shares information with Facebook Companies to enable integrations across its ecosystem. This reinforces WhatsApp’s role within Facebook’s wider business model and monetisation strategy.
Two Key Objectives:
- Ultra-targeted advertising on Facebook — using WhatsApp data to deliver highly personalised ads.
- Transaction fees on WhatsApp Payments — earning commissions similar to credit card processing fees.
These changes align with Facebook’s broader strategy to merge data across its platforms and enhance commercial performance.
The Bigger Picture
Despite controversy, WhatsApp remains the dominant messaging service. On New Year’s Eve 2020, the platform managed over 1.4 billion voice and video calls, marking a 50% increase from the previous year.
With more than 2 billion active users, WhatsApp’s “network effect” makes large-scale migration unlikely: the more people use it, the harder it becomes to leave. Even if a rival app offers better privacy or innovative features, its value drops if your contacts are not on it.
This explains why, despite widespread concern, WhatsApp continues to be the main communication tool for individuals and businesses alike.
Alternatives to WhatsApp
Telegram
Launched in 2013 by the Durov brothers, Telegram operates on a cloud-based architecture, allowing access from multiple devices. It offers both standard chats (using client-server encryption) and secret chats (with end-to-end encryption and self-destructing messages). Users can also hide their phone numbers.
However, standard chats are not encrypted end-to-end by default, which may concern users seeking full confidentiality.
Signal
Developed by a non-profit foundation, Signal provides end-to-end encryption by default for all communications. It collects minimal metadata and does not store messages on its servers. Recommended by Edward Snowden, Elon Musk, and the European Commission, Signal is one of the most trusted platforms for secure communication. Its smaller user base, however, limits its reach.
Threema
A Swiss-made messaging app, Threema requires no phone number or email to register, offering true anonymity. Fully compliant with European data protection laws, it is open source and renowned for its transparency. The Swiss Armyuses it for secure communication. Its one-time purchase model and smaller user base limit its popularity, but its security reputation is exceptional.
GDPR and the European Context
On May 15, 2021, WhatsApp’s new terms officially took effect. In Europe, the GDPR helped mitigate some of the impact, since EU users enjoy stronger protection under European privacy law.
However, even under GDPR, not all data-sharing features can be deactivated. More information continues to flow automatically between WhatsApp and Facebook for service integration.
Users can adjust certain permissions in their smartphone or desktop settings (e.g., location, analytics, cookies), but full control remains limited, and the situation is still not fully transparent.
What You Can Do
You can gradually migrate to alternative chat apps while retaining your WhatsApp contacts:
- Save and export your conversations before deleting your WhatsApp history.
- Inform friends and groups about privacy-respecting alternatives.
- Use WhatsApp only for non-private or non-sensitive communications.
- Adopt other independent apps (Telegram, Signal, Threema) for personal or confidential exchanges.
As more users diversify their communication tools, alternatives continue to evolve and improve.
A Growing Awareness
The business of intermediary digital platforms is expanding rapidly. Building digital awareness — understanding the advantages and risks of each service — has become crucial.
Otherwise, the de facto monopoly of Big Tech will persist, leaving users as passive participants in an ultra-liberal market where convenience outweighs privacy.
On February 18, 2022, millions of European WhatsApp users received a communication regarding data transparency. The European Commission demanded Meta (Facebook) explain how user data is shared and transferred overseas. The EU has already fined WhatsApp €225 million for violating privacy laws, amid warnings that Meta once even considered withdrawing WhatsApp, Facebook, and Instagram from Europe.
(References: RTS Digital Chronicle – Privacy; Les utilisateurs suisses face aux nouvelles conditions de WhatsApp – RTS; RSI News – Threema; WhatsApp official Privacy Policy.)
