WhatsApp is the most used instant messaging app worldwide, with more than 295 crore daily active users. It is known for its strong security features, especially end-to-end encryption. This security measure protects users’ private chats and prevents any unauthorized access. The company claims that only the sender and receiver of the messages can see their chats. However, a recent statement by Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg has created concern among millions of users around the world.
Zuckerberg’s shocking revelation
On Saturday, January 11, 2025, Zuckerberg said that US authorities, including the CIA, could access WhatsApp messages by physically handling users’ devices. He clarified that WhatsApp’s end-to-end encryption protects users’ privacy, but if a government agency gets access to the device, it can read the chats stored in it.
The issue arose during an episode of a podcast called The Joe Rogan Experience, when Zuckerberg was asked a question on privacy. The discussion began when journalist Takkar Carlson accused American intelligence agencies, particularly the NSA and the CIA, of intercepting his private messages with Russian President Putin. The messages were related to an interview with Putin, which was allegedly intercepted by these agencies.
Security concerns from spyware
Zuckerberg also said that if spyware like Pegasus is installed on a device, agencies can access its content, including WhatsApp chats. However, keeping these threats in mind, WhatsApp has recently introduced many privacy features. These also include the disappearing messages feature, which automatically deletes chats from the device after a specified time. This feature makes the privacy of users even stronger.
New features in WhatsApp
Meanwhile, WhatsApp has introduced a new update in its polling feature. Previously, users could only create polls using text options. But now, through the new update, users can also add photos to the poll.
With this feature, users can present their questions or options in visual form. For example, if someone is planning an event, they can attach photos of possible locations along with poll options. This will make it easier for the participants to take better decisions.
These new features of WhatsApp not only improve the experience of the users but also keep their security in mind. However, Mark Zuckerberg’s statement is a reminder that the physical security of any device is as important as digital privacy.