Facebook stops using data from UK WhatsApp users following ICO probe
Elizabeth Denham, the UK's Information Commissioner, writes that Facebook has agreed to pause using data from UK WhatsApp users for advertisements or product improvement purposes
Facebook has agreed to pause using data from UK WhatsApp users for advertisements or product improvement purposes following a probe into its sharing of its users' data from the UK's Information Commissioner's Office (ICO).
Writing on the ICO's website, Elizabeth Denham, the UK's Information Commissioner, outlined the reasons for the probe.
"I had concerns that consumers weren't being properly protected, and it's fair to say the enquiries my team have made haven't changed that view," write Denham. "I don't think users have been given enough information about what Facebook plans to do with their information, and I don't think WhatsApp has got valid consent from users to share the information. I also believe users should be given ongoing control over how their information is used, not just a 30 day window."
She added that Facebook has been asked to sign an 'undertaking', which basically amounts to an agreement, stating that they will better inform their users in future.
"We have now asked Facebook and WhatsApp to sign an undertaking committing to better explaining to customers how their data will be used, and to giving users ongoing control over that information.
"We also want individuals to have the opportunity to be given an unambiguous choice before Facebook start using that information and to be given the opportunity to change that decision at any point in the future. We think consumers deserve a greater level of information and protection, but so far Facebook and WhatsApp haven't agreed. If Facebook starts using the data without valid consent, it may face enforcement action from my office."
Denham finished by describing the large digital footprint internet users leave behind, which creates a rich seam of valuable data for companies to exploit.
"We all rely on digital services for important parts of our lives, whether it's keeping in touch with loved ones or doing our weekly shop. But our digital comings and goings create rich portraits of our lives, and vague terms of service when we sign up aren't giving us the protection we need.
"It's a particular concern when company mergers mean that vast amounts of customers' personal data become an asset to be bought and sold. We're seeing situations where companies are being bought primarily for this data, and when it is combined with information the purchasing company already holds, there's a danger that consumers will have little control as datasets are matched and intrusive details revealed," wrote Denham.