As of February 8, WhatsApp users will have two choices, agree to share your data with Facebook or find a new service. The request for users to accept a new privacy policy states that “you will need to accept these updates to continue using WhatsApp.” When Facebook bought WhatsApp, it assured users that their data would remain private and separate from the larger company.  No explanation has been given for the changes, but sources say they will not affect EU and UK users

The updated policy outlines information that will be collected and shared: “your account registration information (such as your phone number), transaction data, service-related information, information on how you interact with others (including businesses) when using our Services, mobile device information, your IP address, and may include other information identified in the Privacy Policy section entitled ‘Information We Collect’ or obtained upon notice to you or based on your consent.”

Currently over 2billion people use WhatsApp.  For some the change in privacy policy may not be of significance, while for others it is. Just a word of caution, before you click “agree” actually read the terms and conditions and weigh the implications.

Additional information can be found on the WhatsApp site