WhatsApp Green-lights Privacy Update Despite Data Surveillance Row In January, the messaging platform informed users it was preparing a new privacy policy, under which it could share limited user data with Facebook and its group firms. The WhatsApp messaging application is seen on a phone screen August 3, 2017. Photo: Reuters/Thomas White Tech19/Feb/2021 Facebook Incâs WhatsApp said on Thursday it will go ahead with its controversial privacy policy update but will allow users to read it at âtheir own paceâ and will also display a banner providing additional information. In January, the messaging platform informed users it was preparing a new privacy policy, under which it could share limited user data with Facebook and its group firms.