WhatsApp has launched a new feature called Advanced Chat Privacy, offering users an additional layer of privacy to protect the contents of their conversations in both individual chats and groups. This optional feature helps prevent unauthorized sharing of chat content, enhancing user control over sensitive information.
A New Level of Privacy for WhatsApp Users
The Advanced Chat Privacy setting, once enabled, provides enhanced protection by blocking participants from exporting chat contents, auto-downloading media to their devices, or utilizing messages for artificial intelligence (AI) features. This new layer is specifically designed for situations where privacy is crucial, particularly in group chats where users may not know all participants closely.
However, while the feature prevents the automatic sharing and usage of content, users can still manually take screenshots or download media. This ensures that users have control over their privacy without fully restricting their ability to share or save content when necessary.
WhatsApp emphasized that this feature is particularly useful when engaging in sensitive conversations in environments like group chats, where unknown participants might pose a risk to privacy.
The feature is being rolled out to users who are on the latest version of WhatsApp, making it accessible to those looking for extra security in their communication.
Meta Fined for Breaching Digital Markets Act
This update from WhatsApp comes in the wake of a significant €200 million ($227 million) fine imposed on Meta by the European Commission. The fine stems from violations of the Digital Markets Act (DMA), which prohibits the company from enforcing a “pay or consent” model that forces users to agree to personalized ads or face a limited experience.
According to the Commission, Meta’s model did not offer users the ability to choose a less personalized service that would use fewer personal data. This breach of privacy rights led to the penalty, as users were not given a clear choice to opt for a service that would respect their personal data preferences while providing an equivalent service.
Meta’s Response and Future Compliance
Meta has pushed back against the fine, claiming that the European Commission’s actions are unfair and detrimental to American businesses. In a statement, Joel Kaplan, Meta’s Chief Global Affairs Officer, argued that the Commission’s actions were attempting to hinder U.S. businesses while providing more lenient standards for Chinese and European companies. He further stated that the restrictions on personalized advertising would negatively impact European businesses and economies.
The European Commission has also indicated that it is reviewing Meta’s new version of its personalized ads model, which Meta introduced in November 2024. This model allegedly uses less personal data for targeted advertising, and the Commission is examining whether it complies with the DMA. If found non-compliant, Meta could face additional penalties.
WhatsApp’s Advanced Chat Privacy feature marks a significant step in ensuring user privacy and security, particularly in sensitive conversations. As privacy concerns grow, features like these allow users to have more control over their digital interactions. Meanwhile, Meta continues to grapple with regulatory challenges in Europe, with its personalized ads model under scrutiny for failing to meet the Digital Markets Act’s requirements.
