ICO: Statement on WhatsApp sharing information with Facebook

30. August 2016

The ICO just published a statement relating to the fact that WhatsApp is about to share user information with Facebook.

Elizabeth Denham who was appointed Information Commissioner in July 2016, said that “The changes WhatsApp and Facebook are making will affect a lot of people. Some might consider it’ll give them a better service, others may be concerned by the lack of control.” She continued by saying “Our role is to pull back the curtain on things like this, ensuring that companies are being transparent with the public about how their personal data is being shared, and protecting consumers by making sure the law is being followed.” Denham concluded “We’ve been informed of the changes. Organisations do not need to get prior approval from the ICO to change their approaches, but they do need to stay within data protection laws. We are looking into this.”

During the IAPP Europe Data Protection Congress taking place on the 7-10 of November in Brussels Denham will contibute and also give a speech.