BENGALURU: India’s Competition Commission (CCI) has directed WhatsApp to cease the sharing of user data with other applications owned by Meta Platforms, Inc.
The ruling, accompanied by a substantial fine of $25.4 million, stems from violations related to the messaging application’s controversial 2021 privacy policy. The CCI’s decision underscores the growing scrutiny faced by global tech giants in India, particularly regarding user data protection and competitive practices.
The inquiry into WhatsApp’s privacy policy commenced in March 2021, following widespread public backlash against its terms, which permitted the sharing of user data with Facebook and its affiliated entities.
The CCI’s ruling explicitly states that the sharing of data collected on the platform for purposes beyond the provision of WhatsApp services cannot be a prerequisite for users accessing the service in India.
The directive not only aims to protect consumer privacy but also to ensure fair competition in the digital marketplace.
Meta has yet to respond to the CCI’s announcement, reflecting the company’s ongoing challenges in navigating regulatory landscapes across different jurisdictions. As India contemplates a regulatory framework akin to the European Union’s antitrust laws, the implications for tech giants like Meta, Google, and Apple could be profound.
The proposed “Digital Competition Bill,” currently under review by the Indian government, seeks to address these concerns and enhance the regulatory environment governing digital platforms.
Opposition to the proposed legislation has emerged from influential lobby groups, such as the US-India Business Council, which express apprehension regarding its potential impact on business operations.
The apprehension reflects a broader tension between regulatory oversight and the interests of multinational corporations operating in diverse markets.
