WhatsApp’s new privacy policy sparks fears in users

WhatsApp’s announcement that it will be getting new rules, and forcing its users to agree to them has sparked fears. Users are left worried that their personal information is not being kept secret but instead shared with Facebook.

The users, who rely mostly on the messaging app to stay in touch with friends and family as well as business terms are left worried worldwide.

WhatsApp’s new terms and privacy policy will take effect on February 8, 2021. 

If the user doesn’t agree to the new Terms and Privacy policy, they can no longer access the platform after the given timeline.

“By tapping AGREE to accept the new terms and privacy policy, which take effect on February 8, 2021. After this date, you’ll need to accept these updates to continue using WhatsApp. You can also visit the Help Centre if you would prefer to delete your account and would like more information”, the statement said.

“As part of the Facebook family of companies, WhatsApp receives information from and shares information with, this family of companies,” the new privacy policy states.

As being reported, users who have already accepted the new terms and conditions, but do not want WhatsApp to share data with Facebook, or other businesses, will be given an additional 30 days to opt-out and delete their account.

According to WhatsApp, when users will delete their WhatsApp account,  their undelivered messages are deleted from its servers along with any of the user’s other information as it no longer needs to operate and provide its services.

“Please remember that when you delete your account, it does not affect the information other users have relating to you, such as their copy of the messages you sent them,” WhatsApp’s privacy policy added.

Concerned users took to Twitter and shared their views with the hashtag  #WhatsAppPrivacyPolicy: