New Delhi: The Competition Commission of India (CCI) has imposed a ₹213.14 crore fine on Meta for allegedly engaging in anti-competitive practices linked to WhatsApp’s 2021 privacy policy update. The policy had faced scrutiny for allowing data sharing between WhatsApp and other Meta-owned platforms, which the CCI found problematic.
According to the CCI’s findings, the 2021 update permitted user data to be shared for purposes beyond WhatsApp’s core services, including advertising, without offering users a clear opt-out option. The regulator has directed Meta to implement several corrective measures, including prohibiting such data-sharing for five years and ensuring users have more control over their data.
Meta plans to challenge the ruling, stating that the privacy policy update was optional and did not impact users who chose not to accept it. A Meta spokesperson reiterated that the update aimed to enhance transparency around business features and data usage. They emphasized that no users faced service interruptions for declining the update.
As part of its directives, the CCI has instructed WhatsApp to include detailed explanations within its privacy policy, explicitly linking data types to their intended purposes. The company must also offer an opt-out option for data sharing with other Meta entities, ensuring that users retain control over their information.
The CCI’s decision underscores growing regulatory scrutiny over tech giants and data privacy in India, a market where WhatsApp plays a crucial role in personal communication and business operations. Meta’s appeal will be closely watched as it navigates compliance with the CCI’s directives while addressing user and regulatory concerns.
