After user exodus, WhatsApp promises new privacy features

WhatsApp faced a major backlash earlier in 2021 over planned changes to its user rules. The company now wants to address user fears and sell itself as privacy-oriented. — dpa

In the wake of a major controversy over changes to user rules, WhatsApp is recommitting itself to full encryption and holding out the prospect of new features to protect user privacy.

These include the possibility of sending messages that can only be viewed once by the recipient. This could be useful, for example, if you need to send a password to family members, WhatsApp boss Will Cathcart says.