WhatsApp seems to not be totally bending to what the State decides, with the app looking to help keep people connected even amid government-mandated communication disruptions by adding proxy support for WhatsApp users, which enables you to choose a proxy server to remain connected, even if your local network suddenly goes black. WhatsApp Chief Will Cathcart even shared an example of the process in Iranian.
As WhatsApp explains:
“Choosing a proxy enables you to connect to WhatsApp through servers set up by volunteers and organizations around the world dedicated to helping people communicate freely. Connecting via proxy maintains the high level of privacy and security that WhatsApp provides. Your personal messages will still be protected by end-to-end encryption – ensuring they stay between you and the person you’re communicating with and are not visible to anyone in between, not the proxy servers, WhatsApp, or Meta.”
WhatsApp Even if it’s Down
WhatsApp remains to be the world’s most popular messaging platform, often serving as a critical communications channel during times of crisis. However, as more governments and regulatory bodies seek to control information flow, in various ways, it can also be disrupted, cutting people off from essential updates.
Of course, said governments and authorities aren’t too happy with WhatsApp adding backdoor access in case of blocks and restrictions. In Meta’s view, this is an important service, because of such efforts.
The Iranian Government could, of course, just outright ban WhatsApp completely, which is another risk that the platform now faces, but it does make sense for WhatsApp to provide more access options for such situations to keep people connected during technically challenging times.
Meta’s moves to expand messaging encryption have also tugged at the strings of many government and security elements, and it’s interesting to see the company continue to stand up despite strong resistance, which actually puts them at a higher risk of being dunked on by regulation or restriction.
The Wrap
Though the debate on encryption has raged on for years, Meta, for all the talk, has managed to trudge on with its plans, though it has slowed the roll-out, allowing for additional debate. At some point in time, these discussions could lead to bigger problems for Meta’s business. However, at least in this case, standing on principle and allowing for free and open exchange does seem like the proper way to go.
Go here for additional support about setting up a WhatsApp Proxy Server.
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