WhatsApp may suspend its services in Nigeria after being fined $220 million by the FCCPC for data privacy violations. The commission's demands include stopping data sharing with Facebook without explicit consent, which WhatsApp says would make it impossible to operate in Nigeria or globally, impacting many users and businesses.
WhatsApp is considering halting its services in Nigeria following a $220 million fine imposed by the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) for data privacy violations. The FCCPC's demands, which include stopping data sharing with Facebook and third parties without explicit consent, have complicated the situation further. WhatsApp must also disclose data collection practices and restore user control over data usage.
A WhatsApp spokesperson emphasized that compliance with the order would make it impossible to provide services in Nigeria or globally. The spokesperson noted inaccuracies in the order and misrepresentations of how WhatsApp operates. They stressed the platform's reliance on limited data for functionality and user safety and highlighted their ongoing appeal to avoid disrupting services.
Meta, WhatsApp's parent company, refuted claims about the 2021 Privacy Policy update, stating it does not involve sharing user data. The company underscored that storing information for two billion users poses privacy and security risks.
The potential shutdown of WhatsApp in Nigeria would significantly impact individuals and small businesses that depend on the platform for communication and customer engagement. Legal experts have questioned the FCCPC's reference to the National Data Protection Regulation (NDPR) as the basis for the fine, noting its potential weaknesses in court.
