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.
Coverage by Political Leaning
See how different sides of the spectrum reported this story
Notable Quotes
"WhatsApp would implement the user-consent framework as clarified by the tribunal within the prescribed timeline."
— Kapil Sibal , Politician
Key People
Locations
Tags
All Coverage
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.
Similar Stories
Related coverage based on topic and tags
If Meta loses this trial, Instagram and Facebook could change forever
Thirty US states have sued Meta to force an overhaul of its platforms for young users.
August 16, 2026 at 11:27 PMHow the Meta trial could change social media for young people
The trial stems from a lawsuit filed in 2023 by 29 US states, in which they claim numerous violations of federal and state privacy laws for children.
August 18, 2026 at 04:24 PMApple to change app data consent rules, German regulator says - Reuters
Apple to change app data consent rules, German regulator says Reuters
August 17, 2026 at 11:06 AMMeta faces 29-state trial that could reshape Instagram and Facebook - Reuters
Meta faces 29-state trial that could reshape Instagram and Facebook Reuters
August 18, 2026 at 11:34 AMMeta hooked children on Facebook and Instagram, court hears
Meta argued social media addiction does not exist, as a trial stemming from a major lawsuit brought by US states got under way.
August 18, 2026 at 10:11 PMWhy states fought to present a united case against Meta over youth social media harms - Reuters
Why states fought to present a united case against Meta over youth social media harms Reuters
August 18, 2026 at 11:14 AM