Security News > 2020 > February > WhatsApp Defends Encryption as It Tops 2 Billion Users
The Facebook-owned messaging service WhatsApp said Wednesday it now has more than two billion users around the world as it reaffirmed its commitment to strong encryption to protect privacy.
The statement said WhatsApp remained committed to its "Strong encryption" that enables users to connect privately even amid calls by law enforcement in the United States and elsewhere to provide more access.
"Strong encryption is a necessity in modern life. We will not compromise on security because that would make people less safe," WhatsApp said.
The heads of Facebook's WhatsApp and Messenger, Will Cathcart and Stan Chudnovsky, responded in a letter to officials from the three countries that allowing this kind of "Backdoor" access "Would be a gift to criminals, hackers and repressive regimes" while leaving users vulnerable.
Facebook's stance on encryption has been backed by more than 100 activist organizations, security experts and industry groups who warned against efforts to force tech companies to weaken encryption.