You could lose WhatsApp access if you don't share your data with Facebook
The change should be effective from the 8th of February and could render the app useless for those who do not agree with the new policy.
These days it seems like everywhere you go, you'll find advertisements that are specifically targeted toward you.
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You might Google something once and suddenly you see it popping up on Instagram.
These are called targeted ads and they are created by data collection from various websites and then compiled together.
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Now, WhatsApp, the encrypted messaging app that prides itself on being a privacy-focused service, has announced that from the 8th of February their data sharing changes will be permanent.
What this means is that users will have to agree to share their phone numbers, their location, contacts' phone numbers, and other data which will be collected by Facebook and its subsidiaries.
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If users do not agree and comply with the new guidelines then they will lose access to their app and won't be able to use it anymore.
Which might not be the worst thing in the world.
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Since this announcement, many have chosen to already delete their WhatsApp while other giants in the tech industry have vocalised their support of other messaging apps.
Like Elon Musk, who sent out a simple yet effective Tweet, recommending another app called Signal:
Use Signal
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) January 7, 2021
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There are many others who have spoken up about other, better alternatives to WhatsApp that people should consider looking into if they are concerned about their privacy.
TechCrunch editor Mike Butcher has recommended Signal as well as Telegram, providing a side-by-side comparison of the data collected from all three apps:
Signal and Telegram are now better alternatives if you are concerned about your privacy. Here’s what a Facebook wants out of you on WhatsApp and it’s own site: pic.twitter.com/uBN5g9ufgx
— Mike Butcher (@mikebutcher) January 7, 2021
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While the same option was given to users at an earlier stage it was not mandatory, while it has now become a MUST in order to continue using the app.
Either way, the new changes are coming and some have already had to accept the new settings in certain countries and now you know what to expect.
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Does this mean that everyone will now instantly switch over to a new messaging app?
Probably not.
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Main image courtesy of iStock