WhatsApp makes sharing data with Facebook mandatory

WhatsApp has updated its privacy policy and terms of service to better integrate with other products and services offered by Facebook. 

It informed Android and iPhone users through an app notice that emerged on Tuesday, reports Gadget360. 

The notice gives an overview of the changes WhatsApp has brought to its privacy policy and terms of service. Users have also been provided an option to agree to the update directly from the full-screen notice.

In terms of changes, WhatsApp's updated privacy policy and terms of services provide additional information on how the app collects and handles user data. 

The most notable changes that exist on both updated privacy policy and terms of service are around how WhatsApp shares information with Facebook and its subsidiaries.

WhatsApp’s new terms and privacy policy will come into effect from February 8, and users who wish to use the app after this date will have to agree to the new terms and privacy policies. If you do not accept these policies, you will not be able to use the app, reports the Business Insider India.

There are new sections including Transactions and Payments Data as well as Location Information to provide details on precise data collection by the app. WhatsApp has also included specific information on business interactions taking place through its messaging app.

“The information we share with the other Facebook Companies includes your account registration information (such as your phone number), transaction data, service-related information, information on how you interact with others (including businesses) when using our Services, mobile device information, your IP address, and may include other information identified in the Privacy Policy section entitled ‘Information We Collect' or obtained upon notice to you or based on your consent,” WhatsApp noted in a dedicated FAQ section detailing the information it shares with Facebook's companies.