CCI has imposed a heavy fine on WhatsApp’s arbitrariness. WhatsApp is one of the most used instant messaging apps in India. It has more than 55 crore daily active users. After this penalty from CCI, Indian users may soon see a big change in WhatsApp. The Competition Commission of India has forced WhatsApp’s parent company Meta to introduce new privacy controls and data sharing features tailored to Indian users.
Why was the penalty imposed?
Meta is accused of using users’ data for targeted ads by WhatsApp. The Competition Commission of India imposed the fine on Meta, among other companies, for using the data of more than 50 million users in India for advertising. CCIA Meta on Rs. 213.14 crore and directed the company to add in-app notifications to its app. Through in-app notifications, users will know that their data is being used on Meta’s platform. After this, their data can only be used for advertising if the user gives consent.
Strict notice to meta
After the 2021 privacy policy update, WhatsApp has been found to be using users’ data for advertising for the next 5 years. The CCI has issued a stern directive to WhatsApp’s parents, asking them to warn users by providing clear instructions in their apps about what their data is being used for, so that they can give their consent.
A CCI spokesperson said this change to the in-app interface will clearly inform users how WhatsApp processes their data. Users in India should have control over whether or not their data is shared with any company. Due to these in-app notifications, users will have control over sharing their data. Regulators have issued strict instructions to Meta to bring changes in the app’s interface in India. However, the company has not released any statement regarding this at present.
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