WhatsApp, the most popular messaging app in the world, has been accused of accessing users’ microphones even when the app is not in use. According to reports, the app continues to access the microphone in the background, leading to concerns over user privacy.
The issue has been noticed by users who have been able to identify the use of their microphones through the ‘Privacy Indicators’ feature, which adds a green notification to the top right corner of the screen when sensitive permissions, such as microphone or camera access, are in use. Several users have reported that the green dot with a microphone is still active even after exiting or closing the app.
Twitter’s Director of Engineering Foad Dabiri tweeted “WhatsApp has been using the microphone in the background, while I was asleep and since I woke up at 6AM (and that’s just a part of the timeline!) What’s going on?”
While WhatsApp has permission to access the microphone while the app is in use, the green dot should disappear when the hardware is no longer needed. However, some users have discovered that the app has been accessing their microphones in the background, leading to concerns over data privacy.
The issue appears to be affecting users of Google Pixel and Samsung Galaxy devices, among others. WhatsApp has not yet responded to the allegations.
WhatsApp has been part of the META (Facebook) technology conglomerate for several years, which has raised concerns about user data privacy. The company has been criticized in the past for its handling of user data, particularly following the Cambridge Analytica scandal. With these latest allegations, users may begin to question their trust in the app and whether their data is being used without their knowledge or consent.
The issue highlights the need for greater transparency and control over user data, particularly in the age of big tech and social media. As more and more of our lives are lived online, it is essential that we are able to trust the apps and services we use to protect our privacy and data. Until WhatsApp addresses these concerns, users may need to consider alternative messaging apps that prioritize user privacy and security.
