Musk makes bold allegations against WhatsApp
(MENAFN) Elon Musk, known for his outspoken views on technology and privacy, has once again criticized WhatsApp, alleging that the messaging platform operates as spyware due to its handling of user data.
The controversy reignited when Musk responded to a user's query on X (formerly Twitter) about why they were seeing targeted advertisements on WhatsApp despite the platform's end-to-end encryption of messages. Musk succinctly replied, "Because it's spyware."
This isn't the first time Musk has taken aim at WhatsApp, which is owned by Meta, the conglomerate led by Mark Zuckerberg. In May, Musk engaged in an online dispute after a post claimed that WhatsApp exports user data nightly for targeted advertising, effectively treating users as products rather than customers.
"WhatsApp exports your user data every night. Some people still think it is secure," Musk asserted, highlighting ongoing concerns about data privacy and security practices within Meta's ecosystem.
Will Cathcart, head of WhatsApp, responded to Musk's criticism, defending the platform's security measures. He emphasized that WhatsApp's messages are end-to-end encrypted, meaning they cannot be accessed by WhatsApp itself. However, security researcher Tommy Mysk, contributing to the debate, clarified that while message content may be secure, WhatsApp collects metadata such as user locations, communication patterns, and online activity times. This metadata, as outlined in WhatsApp's privacy policy, is utilized for targeted advertising across Meta's various services.
The exchange underscores broader concerns about digital privacy and the transparency of data practices among tech giants. Musk's critique reflects a growing scrutiny over how user information is handled and monetized by major platforms, prompting ongoing debate about the balance between convenience, security, and personal privacy in the digital age.
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