News

U.S. House bans WhatsApp on official devices over security concerns

Kindly like and share this story

The U.S. House of Representatives has banned Meta Platforms’ WhatsApp messaging service from all official devices, citing security and data protection concerns.

In a memo issued to House staff on Monday, the Office of Cybersecurity flagged WhatsApp as “a high risk to users due to the lack of transparency in how it protects user data, absence of stored data encryption, and potential security risks involved with its use.”

The notice, sent by the chief administrative officer, recommended alternatives such as Microsoft Teams, Amazon’s Wickr, Signal, and Apple’s iMessage and FaceTime.

Meta responded strongly to the decision. “We disagree with this decision in the strongest possible terms,” a spokesperson for the company said, adding that WhatsApp “provides a higher level of security than the other approved apps.”

Earlier this year, WhatsApp disclosed that Israeli spyware firm Paragon Solutions had targeted numerous users, including journalists and civil society members.

The House has previously restricted other apps over similar concerns, most notably banning TikTok from staff devices in 2022.


Discover more from starmich blog

Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.

starmich

Michael Tanyare Professionally known as Starmich is a talented and accomplished individual with a passion for excellence. With a strong background in writing, Michael has established himself as a respected professional in the blogging industry. Beyond his professional endeavors, Michael is known for his diverse range of interests. He is an avid online journalist, which further showcases his well-rounded personality and passion for exploring new horizons. Michael's commitment to continuous growth and learning is evident in his pursuit of excellence. This drive allows him to stay at the forefront of emerging trends and maintain a competitive edge in his field. With a warm and approachable demeanor, Michael is highly regarded for his strong communication skills and ability to connect with others. He thrives in collaborative environments and enjoys building meaningful relationships with colleagues and clients alike. In his free time, Michael enjoys surfing the internet. This balance between his professional and personal life reflects his belief in leading a fulfilling and well-rounded lifestyle. With a proven track record of success and a genuine passion for his work, Michael Tanyare continues to make a significant impact in his field. His dedication, expertise, and personable nature make him a valuable asset to any project or team."

Related Articles

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Back to top button

Discover more from starmich blog

Subscribe now to keep reading and get access to the full archive.

Continue reading