Meta-owned WhatsApp is once again at the centre of a global privacy discussion following recent legal scrutiny over its data-handling practices. While the messaging platform continues to maintain that personal chats and calls are protected through end-to-end encryption, WhatsApp has clarified that not every feature works in the same way.

According to the company, activities under the Updates tab—which includes Status and Channels—operate under a different data framework. In its official FAQ and privacy disclosures, WhatsApp explains what information is collected when users interact with these features and how that data may be used for functionality, safety, and business purposes.

This distinction has become important as more users engage with public content, follow channels, and encounter advertisements on the platform.

Data WhatsApp May Collect When You Use Status and Channels

If you actively use the Updates section of WhatsApp, the platform may gather additional, limited information related to your activity. This collection depends largely on how you interact with Status updates, Channels, subscriptions, and ads.

When You Share or View Status Updates

WhatsApp may record basic interaction data such as:

• Whether a status was posted, viewed, or reacted to

• Engagement signals like replies or emoji reactions

• Device and usage-related information linked to the action

The content of personal messages remains encrypted, but interaction metadata related to Status visibility and engagement may be processed.

If You Are a Channel Admin

For users who create or manage Channels, WhatsApp may collect:

• Channel creation and management details

• Posting activity and update frequency

• Subscriber engagement metrics

This data helps WhatsApp support channel features, moderation tools, and analytics for admins.

If You View Channel Updates

Whether you follow a channel or simply view public updates, WhatsApp may gather:

• Information about viewed content

• Interaction patterns such as reactions or shares

• General usage data linked to content discovery

This helps the platform understand how Channels are consumed and improved.

If You Subscribe to a Channel

For paid or subscription-based channels, WhatsApp may process:

• Subscription status and duration

• Payment-related confirmations (handled securely through partners)

• Interaction history with subscribed content

This ensures proper access to paid updates and billing-related services.

If You See Ads on Status or Channels

When advertisements appear in the Updates tab, WhatsApp may use:

• Ad engagement data (views, clicks, skips)

• Non-sensitive signals to personalise ad relevance

WhatsApp states that ads are shown without accessing personal chats or call content.

If You Add WhatsApp to Accounts Center

Linking WhatsApp to Meta’s Accounts Center may allow limited data sharing across Meta services, such as:

• Account preferences

• Cross-platform settings management

This integration is optional and subject to user consent.

How WhatsApp Uses Collected Information

WhatsApp explains that all data usage follows legal obligations and its published privacy framework. Information collected through Status and Channels may be used for several purposes.

Fulfilling Service Commitments

Data helps WhatsApp deliver features users choose to use, including content delivery, subscriptions, and channel management.

With User Consent

Some data usage occurs only after users opt in, such as linking accounts or subscribing to channels.

Legitimate Business Operations

WhatsApp may process limited data to improve services, ensure platform safety, and support advertising—without compromising private chats.

Safety, Security, and Well-being

Information may be used to prevent abuse, detect harmful activity, and protect users’ physical and mental well-being.

Feature-Specific Data Use

How WhatsApp applies collected data depends on user behaviour:

• Status interactions help refine visibility and engagement features

• Channel admin data supports analytics and moderation tools

• Follower activity improves content discovery

• Ad interactions assist in measuring ad performance

• General Updates usage helps enhance the overall experience

Key Takeaway

WhatsApp reiterates that private messages and calls remain end-to-end encrypted. However, public-facing features like Status and Channels involve limited data collection tied to usage and engagement. Understanding this distinction allows users to make informed choices about how they interact with WhatsApp’s evolving platform.