A major controversy on the WhatsApp updated privacy policy is bringing a lot of backlash for the platform. This updated privacy policy is making Indian users reconsider their WhatsApp usage. Moreover, some even contemplating leaving post-implementation of the new Terms of Service.
Earlier this month, WhatsApp informed users of an update in its terms of service and privacy policy. The update is regarding how it processes user data and partners with Facebook to offer integrations across the social media giant’s products.
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It also states that users will have to agree to the new terms and policy by February 8, 2021.
WhatsApp Usage To Go Down?
According to a study by CyberMedia Research (CMR), 76% of those surveyed are aware of the new Privacy Policy. An overwhelming 79% are reconsidering using WhatsApp. Additionally, 28% of those even planning to leave the platform after the implementation of its new policy in May 2021.
The messaging platform when announcing this updated policy gave hints of ‘take it or leave it policy’ in their terms of service, brought a lot of emotions from its users. Consumers, in response to this stance, feel angry (49%), unable to trust WhatsApp ever again (45%), to feeling a breach of trust (35%). However, only a mere 10% of consumers remain indifferent to this new developement.
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We all know how WhatsApp is so integrated into our life. It is our default choice when it comes to messaging with loved ones or communicating with the world.
“For consumers, WhatsApp was their own, free and intimate messaging platform. As WhatsApp eventually moves into much closer integration with the Facebook ecosystem. From hereon, it risks an erosion in brand trust and brand loyalty both key determinants for enduring competitive market advantage.”
CMR Industry Intelligence Group Head Prabhu Ram said in a statement.
However, the mobile messaging app deferred the update to May after it faced backlash over its new privacy policy and terms of service.
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Users Shifting To Other Platforms Like Telegram, Signal?
This study by CMR, also suggests that 50% of WhatsApp and Facebook Messenger users get spam messages on daily basis. The occurrence of phishing messages is high on WhatsApp with 52% and lowest on Telegram (28%), as per the survey.
This is bringing a lot of changes in the thoughts of the users with this update. However, this shift in trust comes with much closer integration with the Facebook ecosystem. The mobile platform is risking an erosion in brand trust and brand loyalty. Both key determinants for enduring competitive market advantage.
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On the other hand, the report also suggests 41% of those surveyed indicated planning to shift to Telegram, whereas 35% prefer Signal. However, one should note that Telegram scores over Signal in terms of awareness (55%) and actual usage (39%), the study said.
Over the past year, 37% of users have actually used Telegram, compared to a mere 10% for Signal. Before this WhatsApp Privacy issue, Telegram already gained traction amongst users over the past year.
However, Signal is gaining popularity just now. It faced some setbacks and challenges with sudden growth.
Furthermore, in the study, it also notes that:
- The majority of users on WhatsApp and FB Messenger do not feel convenient and safe while storing their chat backup on third party or non-end-to-end encrypted platforms.
- 55% of WhatsApp users face the challenge of media files (photos, videos, documents, PPT) from messenger apps, eating up the phone memory.
- 3 in 4 users face challenges frequently or sometimes in re-sharing the content on Groups whenever new members join in.
- More than 71% of people feel safe while joining any mass Group or Channel on Telegram as they don’t need to reveal their phone number to strangers.
- The occurrence of spam is high with incumbents, with >50% of WhatsApp and FB Messenger users facing spams daily.
- 73% of WhatsApp users feel helpless to counter illegal, abusive, and copyrighted content. Whereas, Telegram users are most acknowledged while reporting such content through in-app buttons.
