WhatsApp introduced its updated privacy policy on 4 th January 2021 and notified the users with the only option to accept it. This case had altogether alarmed the need for data privacy law in India. WhatsApp had however clarified that it won't be able to read the messages, but at the same time had different privacy policies for each region. Though most of the users on digital platforms agree to privacy and cookie policies without actually reading them, WhatsApp's updated policy had sparked a mass exodus as users at large are concerned that Facebook would be able to read their private messages. This update had received red flags from data regulatory authorities and privacy experts for its extended data collection and sharing practices. Highlighting a well known quote from the 1970s which connects with a present scenario: 'If you are not paying for it you're the product.' However, as expected sooner or later to happen, now plans to monetize its model for businesses and ad-targeting purposes which is reflected in its updated privacy policy as well. In February 2014, Facebook acquired WhatsApp for USD 19 billion which was free and encrypted. While world economies across the globe are enforcing privacy laws and India is awaiting the Joint Parliamentary Committee's Report on the Personal Data Protection Bill, 2019 widely used Facebook-owned messaging app WhatsApp which is used by billions around the globe updated its privacy policy.

What is whatsapp new policy