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.
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At the end of the retention period, personal information will be deleted, destroyed, or deidentified.
We will promptly destroy personal information at the end of the retention period, as described above. When we destroy personal information, we do so in a way that prevents that information from being restored or reconstructed.
We will retain your Personal Information for as long as we need it to provide you with access to our Services or to fulfill the purposes for which it was collected...
"The storage periods are determined on a case-by-case basis that depends on factors like the nature of the information, why it is collected and processed, relevant legal or operational retention needs, and legal obligations.Excerpt from WhatsApp's Privacy Policy
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The clause states: “The storage periods are determined on a case-by-case basis that depends on factors like the nature of the information, why it is collected and processed, relevant legal or operational retention needs, and legal obligations.”
ConductAtlas has identified this type of provision across 268 platforms. See the full comparison.
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