WhatsApp has released new terms of privacy that, if left unchecked, allows it to give your phone number, among other data, to Facebook. There is no doubt that Facebook will use this data to improve its ad delivery. The acquisition of WhatsApp by Facebook made global headlines when it happened and predictably so, since they’re the most popular platforms in their respective segments. Recently, WhatsApp made it to the headlines again when it announced end-to-end encryption of all messages you send and receive. The news was received with surprise, since everyone assumed their messages had been completely secure (encrypted) so far. Let’s not fall prey to any more assumptions!
Here is a simple guide to how you can opt out of the new terms (created by The Logical Indian) –
There are two ways to do this:
Option 1 (If you’ve not yet agreed to the Terms of Service and Privacy Policy) –
Before you tap Agree to accept updated Terms of Service and Privacy Policy, tap Read.
You will see a control at the bottom of the screen. If you do not want your account information shared with Facebook you can uncheck the box or toggle the control.
Option 2 (If you’ve blindly agreed to the Terms of Service and Privacy Policy) –
After you agree to the updated Terms of Service and Privacy Policy, you will have an additional 30 days to make this choice by going to Settings > Account > Share my account info in the app. If you do not want your account information shared with Facebook, you can uncheck the box or toggle the control.
In today’s age where the boundaries of privacy are getting increasingly blurred, it is imperative that you take control of your privacy.
