U.S. Government Bans WhatsApp from Federal Devices Over Privacy Concerns
Meta Platforms' WhatsApp has been prohibited on U.S. federal government devices following concerns over data privacy and security practices. The Chief Administrative Officer of the U.S. House of Representatives issued a directive on June 23, mandating staffers to remove the app immediately from all government-issued devices.
Meta spokesperson Andy Stone contested the decision, emphasizing WhatsApp's end-to-end encryption and widespread use among lawmakers. The ban highlights growing scrutiny over tech giants' data handling as governments worldwide tighten digital security protocols.