South Africa: Information Regulator entered into settlement agreement with WhatsApp resolving concerns on privacy policy

On 13 November 2025, the Information Regulator announced a settlement agreement with WhatsApp concerning its 2021 Privacy Policy. The agreement addresses WhatsApp's processing of personal information in South Africa. As part of the settlement, WhatsApp withdrew its legal action and will implement additional transparency measures for users. The case relates to WhatsApp’s amended Privacy Policy in South Africa. Following an assessment, the Regulator issued an enforcement notice, concluding that the 2021 update did not fully comply with the Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA). While WhatsApp had sought judicial review of the decision, the matter has now been resolved through the settlement. The agreement, which will be formalised as a court order, includes commitments from WhatsApp to provide enhanced transparency regarding the information made available to South African users.