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Privacy
Ads Data Privacy data security DPC EU European Cyber Security European Union Legal Action Against Meta Meta Chatbots Meta Data personalized ads Privacy

WhatsApp Ads Delayed in EU as Meta Faces Privacy Concerns

 

Meta recently introduced in-app advertisements within WhatsApp for users across the globe, marking the first time ads have appeared on the messaging platform. However, this change won’t affect users in the European Union just yet. According to the Irish Data Protection Commission (DPC), WhatsApp has informed them that ads will not be launched in the EU until sometime in 2026. 

Previously, Meta had stated that the feature would gradually roll out over several months but did not provide a specific timeline for European users. The newly introduced ads appear within the “Updates” tab on WhatsApp, specifically inside Status posts and the Channels section. Meta has stated that the ad system is designed with privacy in mind, using minimal personal data such as location, language settings, and engagement with content. If a user has linked their WhatsApp with the Meta Accounts Center, their ad preferences across Instagram and Facebook will also inform what ads they see. 

Despite these assurances, the integration of data across platforms has raised red flags among privacy advocates and European regulators. As a result, the DPC plans to review the advertising model thoroughly, working in coordination with other EU privacy authorities before approving a regional release. Des Hogan, Ireland’s Data Protection Commissioner, confirmed that Meta has officially postponed the EU launch and that discussions with the company will continue to assess the new ad approach. 

Dale Sunderland, another commissioner at the DPC, emphasized that the process remains in its early stages and it’s too soon to identify any potential regulatory violations. The commission intends to follow its usual review protocol, which applies to all new features introduced by Meta. This strategic move by Meta comes while the company is involved in a high-profile antitrust case in the United States. The lawsuit seeks to challenge Meta’s ownership of WhatsApp and Instagram and could potentially lead to a forced breakup of the company’s assets. 

Meta’s decision to push forward with deeper cross-platform ad integration may indicate confidence in its legal position. The tech giant continues to argue that its advertising tools are essential for small business growth and that any restrictions on its ad operations could negatively impact entrepreneurs who rely on Meta’s platforms for customer outreach. However, critics claim this level of integration is precisely why Meta should face stricter regulatory oversight—or even be broken up. 

As the U.S. court prepares to issue a ruling, the EU delay illustrates how Meta is navigating regulatory pressures differently across markets. After initial reporting, WhatsApp clarified that the 2025 rollout in the EU was never confirmed, and the current plan reflects ongoing conversations with European regulators.
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Tracking
Ads Analytics AppleTV Chromecast control Cyber Security Data device FireTV personalization Roku settings smartTV streaming surveillance Tracking

Your Streaming Devices Are Watching You—Here's How to Stop It

Streaming devices like Roku, Fire TV, Apple TV, and Chromecast make binge-watching easy—but they’re also tracking your habits behind the scenes.

Most smart TVs and platforms collect data on what you watch, when, and how you use their apps. While this helps with personalised recommendations and ads, it also means your privacy is at stake.


If that makes you uncomfortable, here’s how to take back control:

1. Amazon Fire TV Stick
Amazon collects "frequency and duration of use of apps on Fire TV" to improve services but says, “We don’t collect information about what customers watch in third-party apps on Fire TV.”
To limit tracking:
  • Go to Settings > Preferences > Privacy Settings
  • Turn off Device Usage Data
  • Turn off Collect App Usage Data
  • Turn off Interest-based Ads

2. Google Chromecast with Google TV
Google collects data across its platforms including search history, YouTube views, voice commands, and third-party app activity. However, “Google Chromecast as a platform does not perform ACR.”
To limit tracking:
  • Go to Settings > Privacy
  • Turn off Usage & Diagnostics
  • Opt out of Ads Personalization
  • Visit myactivity.google.com to manage other data

3. Roku
Roku tracks “search history, audio inputs, channels you access” and shares this with advertisers.
To reduce tracking:
  • Go to Settings > Privacy > Advertising
  • Enable Limit Ad Tracking
  • Adjust Microphone and Channel Permissions under Privacy settings
4. Apple TV
Apple links activity to your Apple ID and tracks viewing history. It also shares some data with partners. However, it asks permission before allowing apps to track.
To improve privacy:

  • Go to Settings > General > Privacy
  • Enable Allow Apps to Ask to Track
  • Turn off Share Apple TV Analytics
  • Turn off Improve Siri and Dictation

While streaming devices offer unmatched convenience, they come at the cost of data privacy. Fortunately, each platform allows users to tweak their settings and regain some control over what’s being shared. A few minutes in the settings menu can go a long way in protecting your personal viewing habits from constant surveillance.
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Overheating
Ads Authentication Cyber Security Data Privacy Data Usage Google Pixel Phones iPhone NordVPN Overheating

Detecting Mobile Hacks: Signs and Solutions

The possibility of getting hacked is a worrying reality in a time when our lives are inextricably linked to our smartphones. Hackers' strategies, which are always looking for ways to take advantage of weaknesses, also evolve along with technology. Thankfully, it is possible to determine whether unauthorized access has been gained to your phone.

1. Unusual Behavior:

If your phone starts exhibiting unusual behavior, such as sudden battery drains, sluggish performance, or unexpected shutdowns, it could be a sign of a breach. According to Tom's Guide, these anomalies may indicate the presence of malware or spyware on your device, compromising its functionality.

2. Data Usage Spikes:

Excessive data usage is another red flag. A sudden spike in data consumption without any change in your usage patterns could signify a compromise. NordVPN emphasizes that certain malware operates in the background, quietly sending your data to unauthorized sources, leading to increased data usage.

3. Strange Pop-ups and Ads:

Pop-ups and ads that appear out of the blue, especially when your phone is idle, may be indicative of a hack. Business Insider notes that these intrusions often result from malicious software attempting to generate revenue for hackers through ad clicks.

4. Unrecognized Apps and Permissions:

TechPP advises users to regularly check for unfamiliar apps on their phones. If you notice apps that you didn't download or don't remember installing, it's a clear sign that your phone's security may have been compromised. Additionally, scrutinize app permissions to ensure they align with the app's functionality.

5. Overheating:

An overheating phone can be a symptom of hacking. Unexplained overheating may indicate that malicious processes are running in the background. If your phone feels unusually hot, it's worth investigating further.

6. Sudden Password Changes:

If you find that your passwords have been changed without your knowledge, it's a serious cause for concern. This could signify a hacker gaining unauthorized access to your accounts. NordVPN emphasizes the importance of immediate action to secure your accounts and change passwords if you suspect foul play.

It's essential to be watchful and proactive to protect your phone from any hackers. Observe the recommendations given by reliable sources regularly. Recall that reducing the effect of a security compromise requires quick identification and action. Our knowledge of and protections against the constant threat of mobile phone hacking should advance along with technology.


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Research
Ads Data Safety data security Mobile Phones Research

Research Says, Mobile Phones are Listening to Your Conversations

 

You're not alone if you've felt paranoid after your phone displayed an advertisement for a random item you just discussed. If you've recently been discussing it with a friend, seeing an advertisement for the same product can leave you feeling uncomfortable. 

And, while social media platforms have long denied spying on their users, recent studies indicate that businesses are employing a sneaky type of data monitoring system that takes advantage of the devices' microphone systems. According to NordVPN research, businesses are using ultrasonic cross-device tracking to listen to background noise and serve up personalized ads, while charging the company for the privilege.

As per NordVPN, the cross-device tracking method involves apps using ultrasonic "audio beacons" that cannot be heard by the human ear to "link all the devices you own to track your behavior and location." These high-pitched signals can be concealed in TV commercials or online videos.

When your device's microphone picks them up, advertisers can identify what you've been watching or talking about. Different apps on your phone can hear for these beacons to keep track of what you're doing, which is why some apps request access to your microphone.

According to NordVPN's research, nearly half of Brits (45%) claim to have seen an ad for something show up on their phones shortly after talking about it or watching it on TV, without ever searching for it online. Meanwhile, 62% of consumers said they had no idea how to avoid this, and 1 in 8 said the advertisements 'scared' them.

NordVPN’s Adrianus Warmenhoven said: "While it’s impossible to stop the ultrasonic beacons working, you can reduce the chance of your smartphone listening for them by simply restricting unnecessary permissions you have granted the apps on your device."

According to NordVPN, turning off microphone access for apps that don't require it may help. To change the permissions that apps have, go to the Settings menu on your phone and look for a 'Privacy' option. You should be able to see which apps have access to your microphone here and limit it as needed. You can also use a secure browser, such as Brave, Tor, or DuckDuckGo, or get a VPN, which encrypts all of your online activity.
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