WhatsApp, Facebook to share

MOBILE message service WhatsApp will start sharing subscriber data with parent Facebook, giving advertisers better access to information on WhatsApp’s one billion-strong user base.

The company said yesterday the change would allow Facebook to target advertising at WhatsApp users who are also on the social media platform, and help WhatsApp fight spam. But the move was sure to raise eyebrows among privacy advocates.

“By connecting with Facebook’s systems, Facebook can offer better friend suggestions and show you more relevant ads if you have an account with them,” WhatsApp said.

The change will not involve third-party banner ads. – AFP