Facebook, WhatsApp and User’s Privacy: How things stand right now!

The Facebook owned messaging app is also planning to integrate users WhatsApp account to their respective Facebook account. Photo: Javier Santos via Google+. This feature is now being tested out in WhatsApp beta version 2.12.413.

Leaked screenshots seen by the publication show that a new data-sharing tool will be used by the social media site to share user information between itself and WhatsApp.

It’s quite unthinkable though there is growing suspicion that WhatsApp could be sharing user data with Facebook to enhance individual’s experience.

It is interesting that this feature is being rolled out now – Just a week back, WhatsApp had declared that they will be doing away with subscription fees. Meanwhile, end-to-end encryption and Facebook integrations are a welcome change in WhatsApp. However, the good piece of news that has raised as many eyebrows as it has brought glee to many comes with a rider; it could be sharing user data with its parent company Facebook.

However, in the immediate term, there is every chance of several of the WhatsApp contacts making it to Facebook’s suggested friend listing. Many have been pondering on how the company was planning to make money out of WhatsApp; since it has a policy of “No Ads, No Gimmicks and No Games” still driving it. Even though it has over 900 million users, majority are found in developing nations where access to credit or debit card services is still a dream for many. Facebook will definitely try to get in touch with them to create Facebook accounts.