1 hr ago

Android Setting Can Restrict Google AI Access to WhatsApp Chats

WhatsApp says personal chats are protected with end-to-end encryption.

But Google’s on-screen AI features may be able to see messages and notifications that are showing on your Android screen.

This does not turn off WhatsApp’s encryption.

It means that if you use those AI features, information visible on the screen can be shared with them.

Google processes that information under its own terms and privacy policies, and processing may happen in the cloud.

You can stop this access for WhatsApp by turning off Proactive Assistance in your phone’s app settings.

This setting change applies to WhatsApp.

Other Google AI features, such as the Gemini voice assistant, can still be used.

Key facts

Setting: Proactive Assistance
How to find it: Android Settings > Apps > WhatsApp > Screen access > Proactive Assistance
What it can access: Information displayed on screen, including visible WhatsApp messages and notifications
Encryption: Disabling the setting is separate from WhatsApp’s end-to-end encryption; the article says personal chats remain encrypted by default.
Effect of turning it off: Google’s on-screen AI features no longer access WhatsApp information through this setting.
Other Google AI features: Features including the Gemini voice assistant remain available.

businesstoday.in · 4 hrs ago