WhatsApp users have received a brief message stating that WhatsApp may share their data with Facebook if the need arises. It states that whenever users message businesses that use Facebook through the app, their data could be shared with Facebook.
This move is a result of the change in terms of service and privacy policy. The notice first showed a brief overview of how WhatsApp processes user data, and that was followed by how WhatsApp will more deeply integrate with Facebook from now on.
The new terms of service and privacy policy will take effect on February 8, 2021. Facebook has made the changes compulsory, so anyone who doesn’t make the update will not be able to make use of WhatsApp for contacting those businesses.
Since July last year, WhatsApp privacy policy changes have been announced but this part that deals with interaction with Facebook businesses is only an addition to the policy.
The WhatsApp user data that may be shared with Facebook includes WhatsApp account registration, phone numbers, transaction data, service-related information, interaction information, mobile device information, IP addresses, and other information obtained or identified upon notice to the user based on his or her consent.
Facebook reveals that it will make use of the data to enable a better understanding of how their services work or how WhatsApp itself is used. They also see it as a means to improve their services and intend to make suggestions available for users. The platform also intends to personalize features and content, showing relevant offers and ads across the Facebook Company Products.
A spokesman for WhatsApp said they are doing this updating of terms of service and privacy policy so as to make WhatsApp a great way to get answers or help from a business.
The new terms make sense only as a means of assisting WhatsApp integrating with Facebook more closely as they belong together.
