WhatsApp has publicly committed to clearer communication with users and a firmer stance on privacy, aiming to explain contract changes in a straightforward way that goes beyond typical terms and conditions language. This pledge comes after the European Commission reported on Monday that the messaging service would no longer sell users’ personal data to third parties or other Meta entities for advertising purposes. The announcement aligns with EU expectations for responsible data handling and consumer protection across digital services.
WhatsApp will now explain amendments to its terms in plain language, reflecting a commitment to transparency. The company will make clear that it intends to comply with future changes and, if a user refuses the new terms, that refusal may limit continued use of the messaging service. This approach seeks to respect user autonomy while ensuring the service remains usable for those who consent to updates. The emphasis is on helping users understand what they are agreeing to and what their choices mean ahead of any future adjustments.
The company also stated it will stop repeatedly prompting users to accept changes in the terms, avoiding coercive or persistent messaging that pushed users toward accepting updates. Instead, communications about changes will be delivered in a single, clear manner with adequate context so users can make informed decisions without feeling pressured to accept immediately. The goal is to foster trust by reducing friction and ensuring users feel in control of their data and how it is shared within the ecosystem.
In addition, WhatsApp guaranteed that it will not transfer users’ personal data to third-party firms or to other Meta services in ways that conflict with European privacy protections. This aligns with new digital services regulations that the EU has introduced to oversee major tech platforms. The move signals a broader effort to harmonize data practices with consumer rights and to provide clearer notices about data handling and third-party sharing in a rapidly evolving digital market.
Didier Reynders, European Commissioner for Justice, remarked that consumers have a right to understand what they are agreeing to and what their choices mean, so they can decide whether to continue using the platform. The statement reinforces the EU’s focus on transparency and accountability for large technology services operating within its borders, ensuring that user consent is informed and reversible where appropriate and that updates to terms respect user preferences and rights under EU law.