Iran Warns Against WhatsApp, Instagram: Allegations of Data Sharing with Israel

Iranian state media is urging citizens to delete WhatsApp and Instagram, alleging the platforms are harvesting user data and transmitting it to Israel. The claims have ignited a fresh debate over data privacy and security in the digital age.

The controversial statement, broadcast on Iranian state television, accuses the Meta-owned platforms of compromising user privacy on a massive scale.

Meta, the parent company of WhatsApp and Instagram, has vehemently denied the accusations. They maintain that user data is protected through robust security measures and that the allegations are “false.”

The Iranian media’s warning resurfaces long-standing concerns about Meta’s data practices, notably voiced by Edward Snowden. The former intelligence whistleblower has been a vocal critic, previously labeling Facebook (now Meta) a “surveillance company” that profits from the exploitation of personal user information.

Snowden, who has been living in exile in Russia since 2013, argues that Meta is not merely a victim of data breaches but an active participant in mass surveillance. He stated in 2019 that these companies, which collect and sell detailed records of private lives, are essentially “surveillance companies” masquerading as “social media” platforms. He further stated that “Facebook makes their money by exploiting and selling intimate details about the private lives of millions, far beyond the scant details you voluntarily post.”

The controversy highlights the growing tension between governments and tech giants over data control and security. It also raises critical questions about the extent to which user data is vulnerable to exploitation and misuse.

Keywords: WhatsApp, Instagram, Iran, Israel, data privacy, Edward Snowden, Meta, data security, surveillance, social media, user data.