The controversial step Facebook has taken to share WhatsApp data continues directly to bring the tail. And according to a recent Bloomberg post, one of Germany’s toughest regulators on data matters seek an administrative order by which Facebook should stop collecting data from WhatsApp.
Regulatory body established in the city of Hamburg reportedly seek an immediate execution order against Facebook by May 15. This request is due to the fact that The regulator is concerned that changes to WhatsApp’s privacy policy could lead to the illegal use of user data for marketing and advertising purposes. Johannes Caspar himself, Data Commissioner in Germany, said today the following:
WhatsApp is used by almost 60 million people in Germany and is by far the most used social application, even more than Facebook. Therefore, it is even more important to ensure that the high number of users, which makes the service attractive to many people, does not lead to misuse of the power of the data.
Suggested privacy policy changes as WhatsApp shares additional data with Facebook, such as phone number, service information, IP address, and transaction data, but WhatsApp has since clarified that these privacy policy changes do not affect data sharing with Facebook in regards to user chats or profile information., and that the new terms apply instead to those who use the professional chat feature.
Remember that WhatsApp has already delayed the introduction of its new privacy policy earlier this year, after confusion and user reactions forced the company to assure users of its commitment to their privacy. However, the relationship between Facebook and WhatsApp will come under increased scrutiny in Germany following the request for this decree.
Facebook commented in a statement that review the information it has received from the German regulator and ensure that it will resolve any existing misunderstandings regarding the purpose and effect of updating the privacy terms. He also assured that the company remains committed to providing secure and private communications to its users.
A new chapter in this odyssey that Facebook is writing with its still controversial privacy policy. We will see if the order and the effects that could have on the rest of the countries.
