WhatsApp Hid Instructions in Help Pages Telling Its AI Chatbot Not to Recommend Privacy Regulators
Summary
WhatsApp's help pages contained hidden instructions for its support chatbot, directing it not to suggest privacy regulators to users unable to delete their accounts. This instruction contradicted WhatsApp's European privacy policy, which advises users to complain to regulators. The hidden text was present until October 18th.
IFF Assessment
This article highlights a potentially deceptive practice by a major tech company, which may hinder users' ability to seek regulatory recourse for privacy concerns, making it bad news for defenders of user privacy.
Defender Context
This incident raises concerns about how large platforms may obscure information and potentially discourage users from exercising their privacy rights. Defenders should be aware of such practices and advocate for transparency in how user data and privacy options are communicated.