This analysis describes what WhatsApp's agreement states, permits, or reserves. It does not constitute a legal determination about enforceability. Regulatory applicability and practical outcomes may vary by jurisdiction, enforcement context, and individual circumstances. Read our methodology
The updated policy now explicitly states that users may see other types of ads in Status and Channels, reversing prior language indicating WhatsApp had no intention to introduce ads. This represents a shift from the previous position and discloses a change in the advertising model. The policy also adds a new section directing US residents to a separate Regional Privacy Notice where consumer privacy rights under US law are described. Users in the US may wish to review that separate notice to understand their specific privacy rights and any opt-out or data access mechanisms available under applicable state law.
View change record →How other platforms handle this
We automatically collect data about your approximate location, such as country, state or city, based on your SIM card or IP address.
Depending on your device and app settings, we also collect location data from your devices. If your mobile device is connected to your vehicle via Bluetooth or tether, vehicle location may be derived from mobile...
We may use Automated License Plate Recognition (ALPR) technology where not prohibited by law to collect information relating to vehicles present at or near Target stores.
"Even if you do not use our location-related features, we use IP addresses and other information like phone number area codes to estimate your general location (e.g., city and country).Excerpt from WhatsApp's Privacy Policy
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The clause states: “Even if you do not use our location-related features, we use IP addresses and other information like phone number area codes to estimate your general location (e.g., city and country).”
ConductAtlas has identified this type of provision across 286 platforms. See the full comparison.
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