WhatsApp banned from US House devices over security concerns – Verdict

The directive, sent by the chief administrative officer, cited significant security risks associated with the application. June 24, 2025 Staff were instructed to utilise a different messaging platform. Credit: BongkarnGraphic/Shutterstock. Meta Platforms’ messaging service WhatsApp has been prohibited on all US House of Representatives devices, according to a memo issued to House staff, reported Reuters . The directive, sent by the chief administrative officer, cited significant security risks associated with the application. The memo stated that the “Office of Cybersecurity has deemed WhatsApp a high risk to users due to the lack of transparency in how it protects user data, absence of stored data encryption, and potential security risks involved with its use.” Staff were advised to use alternative messaging platforms, including Microsoft’s Teams, Amazon.com’s Wickr, Signal, and Apple’s iMessage and FaceTime. A Meta spokesperson expressed strong disagreement with the decision, asserting that WhatsApp offers a higher level of security compared to the other approved applications. The company did not provide further details on measures to address the concerns raised. GlobalData Strategic Intelligence US Tariffs are shifting – will you react or anticipate? Don’t let policy changes catch you off guard. Stay proactive with real-time data and expert analysis. By
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