Archive · 19 Nov 2025
CCI Seeks Clarity on WhatsApp Data Sharing Ruling
The Competition Commission of India (CCI) is asking the National Company Law Appellate Tribunal (NCLAT) to explain a recent ruling about WhatsApp's data sharing.
The CCI wants to know if rules about protecting user privacy and getting their consent also apply when WhatsApp shares data for showing ads.
The case started because WhatsApp changed its privacy policy in 2021, making it hard for users to opt out of data sharing with other companies in the Meta group.
CCI moves NCLAT on WhatsApp's data sharing order
Seeks clarification on privacy safeguards for advertising data
NCLAT grants Meta and WhatsApp time to file objections
CCI challenges NCLAT's overturn of data sharing ban for ads
Case relates to WhatsApp's 2021 privacy policy update
- Who
- Competition Commission of India (CCI), National Company Law Appellate Tribunal (NCLAT), Meta, WhatsApp
- What
- CCI seeks clarification on WhatsApp's data sharing ruling
- When
- November 2022 - present
- Where
- National Company Law Appellate Tribunal (NCLAT)
- Why
- To clarify privacy safeguards for advertising data sharing
CCI's Stance
NCLAT's Ruling
Data Sharing for Ads
CCI's Stance
CCI argues for strong user privacy protections, transparency, and genuine user consent
NCLAT's Ruling
NCLAT did not address privacy safeguards for advertising data in its ruling
- Case Origin
- WhatsApp's 2021 privacy policy update
- CCI's Initial Action
- Imposed Rs 213.14 crore fine, banned data sharing for 5 years
- NCLAT's Ruling
- Overturned data sharing ban for ads, upheld penalty and other directions
- CCI's Current Action
- Seeking clarification on privacy safeguards for advertising data
Sources
Meta prevails in historic FTC antitrust case, wont have to break off WhatsApp, Instagram
Meta Wins Major Antitrust Case As US Judge Rules No Monopoly
Meta wins antitrust case, judge rules company does not hold a social media monopoly
Meta wins major antitrust case as judge rules it did not violate law in buying Instagram, WhatsApp
CCI Moves NCLAT On WhatsApp Order
