WhatsApp 2.2017.6

Here are recurring questions and related user issues regarding WhatsApp, with a focus on security concerns. These questions have emerged from real incidents, vulnerabilities, and user concerns related to data privacy and security breaches.

1. Has WhatsApp ever suffered a major security breach?

Yes, WhatsApp has experienced several notable security incidents. One of the most significant occurred in May 2019 when a vulnerability in the app was exploited using a buffer overflow in WhatsApp’s VoIP stack. This allowed attackers to install spyware (notably Pegasus from the NSO Group) by simply placing a call to the target's device—even if the call wasn't answered.

• Source: Financial Times
• WhatsApp Blog Statement: Facebook Engineering

2. Is WhatsApp end-to-end encryption truly secure?

WhatsApp uses the Signal Protocol for end-to-end encryption, which is considered one of the most secure encryption protocols. However, critics point out that while messages are encrypted in transit, metadata (such as who you're talking to and when) is still collected and could potentially be accessed or misused.

• Explanation by WhatsApp: WhatsApp Security Whitepaper
• Criticism: EFF Analysis

3. Can WhatsApp be used to install spyware or malware?

Yes. In addition to the Pegasus spyware case, another instance was in 2021 when a vulnerability allowed attackers to remotely execute malicious code on the user's device via specially crafted image files.

• CVE Detail: CVE-2021-24027
• TechRadar Report: TechRadar Article

4. What data does WhatsApp share with Facebook and third parties?

WhatsApp has faced criticism over its data-sharing practices with parent company Meta (formerly Facebook). In January 2021, WhatsApp updated its privacy policy to allow more data sharing with Facebook, including metadata and business messaging data.

• Privacy Policy Details: WhatsApp FAQ
• BBC Coverage: BBC News

5. How secure is WhatsApp Web compared to the mobile app?

WhatsApp Web mirrors messages from the phone and uses the same end-to-end encryption. However, it poses additional risks—especially on shared or public computers—because session hijacking or local storage vulnerabilities could expose sensitive data.

• Security Overview: WhatsApp FAQ

6. Can someone access my WhatsApp messages without my knowledge?

If someone gains physical access to your device, they may access your messages, particularly if you don’t use biometric or PIN-based app locks. Additionally, attackers may trick users into revealing their 6-digit verification code, leading to account hijacking.

• Account Hijack Risks: Forbes Coverage

7. Does WhatsApp have any known vulnerabilities that haven't been fixed?

Most known vulnerabilities are patched promptly once disclosed. However, like all software, new exploits may emerge. WhatsApp maintains a Security Advisories page listing all CVEs it has addressed.

8. Has WhatsApp faced any legal or governmental scrutiny over security issues?

Yes, WhatsApp has been investigated and fined over privacy-related matters. For example, in 2021, Ireland's Data Protection Commission fined WhatsApp €225 million for failing to adequately inform EU citizens about how their data was being handled.

• Regulatory Action: Reuters Article