Why is WhatsApp's privacy policy facing a legal challenge in India?
A 2021 policy update requires users to share data with Meta for ads purposes to continue using the app.
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"WhatsApp would implement the user-consent framework as clarified by the tribunal within the prescribed timeline."
— Kapil Sibal , Politician
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A 2021 policy update requires users to share data with Meta for ads purposes to continue using the app.
WhatsApp has agreed to comply with the Competition Commission of India's directions requiring greater user control over data sharing with its parent company Meta, while arguing against a blanket ban on data sharing.
Meta has agreed to implement a consent-based framework for data sharing by March 16, 2026, following a court ruling that all Indian user data shared with Meta requires explicit, revocable consent.
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