Everything You Need to Know About Whatsapp Business Safety

This article dives into all security-related concerns of WhatsApp Business to help you make the most of WhatsApp Business. Let’s begin with how safe WhatsApp business is for both end users and touch base on everything you would want to know about WhatsApp Business Safety!

WhatsApp is rapidly becoming the next favorite communication platform for leading brands. Whether customer support or marketing, businesses continue to see a positive response rate from the messaging platform.

But with the increase in its use, both brands and customers struggle with security concerns as it exposes a lot of personal and professional data - pretty much similar to how emails work! 

Let's begin understanding every other aspect of WhatsApp Business Safety, but first the big question - Is WhatsApp Business Safe?

Is WhatsApp Business safe & secure for both customers and brands?

If you are new to WhatsApp Business, it’s normal to wonder whether the platform is secure. Here are some points that show how WhatsApp understands the importance of security when it comes to its users as well as the brands signing up for business accounts:  

WhatsApp provides end-to-end encryption

Ah! The question - is WhatsApp Business end to end encrypted? Well, WhatsApp provides end-to-end encryption, which keeps the conversation private between the business and customers. No one else can listen to calls or read the conversations. It protects data from being decrypted by interested parties like telecom providers, the government, or even WhatsApp. 

WhatsApp stores no messages on its servers 

Many communication service providers store customer data to personalize their customer experience. WhatsApp doesn’t store any data on its server. It ensures that all your messages are stored only on your device. But there are some instances when WhatsApp stores your data, like if a message contains media or remains undelivered as the other person is offline. However, it’s temporarily stored till it's finally delivered to the end user. 

WhatsApp maintains no call detail records 

All traditional mobile carriers maintain call detail records like location, details of the person calling, and call durations. Unlike them, WhatsApp provides complete safety by not keeping any of this information. 

It has strict rules for businesses accessing additional services 

Larger businesses require access to additional features like WhatsApp API. Businesses must follow strict data regulations and work with an official WhatsApp Business Service Provider to comply with the privacy framework. 

WhatsApp Business API is as secure as the app 

WhatsApp Business API also remains end-to-end encrypted and ensures secure customer communication. Even the messages stored are temporary to personalize communication. 

In fact, WhatsApp is highly strict with the industries that can access API. For example, adult, gambling, and tobacco businesses are prohibited from using API. 

Is WhatsApp Business safer than WhatsApp? 

WhatsApp and WhatsApp Business are two of the most commonly used messenger apps due to their advanced features, user-friendly design, and security. Now when it comes to safety, both apps have end-to-end encryption, which protects data from third-party users. However, WhatsApp Business can store customer data to deliver a personalized experience. 

WhatsApp, on the other hand, maintains complete privacy as it doesn’t store any information like location, conversations, or file attachments. In conclusion, both apps are safe to use, but in Whatsapp Business, once the message is received, it will be subject to the privacy policy of the said business. 

Can WhatsApp read business account chats? 

As discussed earlier, messages sent using both WhatsApp Business and API are end-to-end encrypted. No third-party user or even WhatsApp can access these chats. All the conversations on texts or calls strictly remain between the business and its customers. 

WhatsApp even asks businesses to verify their profiles to instill customer trust further. They are made to comply with all the commerce policies before they can begin using features like WhatsApp broadcasts, checkout links or taking payments on the messaging platform. 

Who has access to data when using WhatsApp Business API? 

Large businesses using WhatsApp Business API often work with a trusted Business Service Provider (BSP) for smooth functioning. In this scenario, the data remains between the business, the chosen BSP, and other business support executives. Most reliable BSPs keep the data secured and retain it until they complete the required tasks. 

How can I protect my customers while using WhatsApp? 

Most large businesses using WhatsApp API works with a reliable Business Solution Provider adhering to security protocols. 

Now with many different providers, making the right choice is crucial to provide complete safety to your customers and get a steady ROI on your WhatsApp marketing investment. 

For instance, if you are an eCommerce brand, QuickReply.ai can help you run highly personalized campaigns with an increased response rate and no threat to customer privacy. Manually running these campaigns might lead to unintentional privacy issues and a permanent account ban. 

Therefore, analyze the available BSPs and make an informed decision. 

Also read: How to choose the best WhatsApp Business API solution provider for your eCommerce business 

Practices to avoid to ensure complete WhatsApp Business Safety 

Here are some things you must avoid doing to prevent your WhatsApp Business account from being banned: 

1. Sending unwanted messages

WhatsApp’s reaction is like that of a person regarding unwanted messages. It blocks you if you keep contacting a customer after they ask you not to. Therefore, avoid sending messages to these users and remove them from your contact book immediately. 

2. Bulk messaging to customers 

WhatsApp identifies bulk or auto messaging through its machine-learning technology and customer reports. Users hate receiving irrelevant bulk messages, and WhatsApp quickly bans these accounts. Remember to experiment with different types of WhatsApp campaigns to stay relevant! 

3. Extracting data from illicit sources 

You must only contact customers with the information extracted through your credible sources. Avoid using a contact list that doesn’t belong to you or extracting numbers from different WhatsApp groups. 

4. Frequent use of broadcast messages 

Broadcast messages can be sent only when customers save your number in their contact list. Spamming them might not be great if they have trusted you enough to keep you in their contacts. If users keep reporting your messages, WhatsApp will likely ban your account. 

5. Violating user privacy 

WhatsApp prioritizes user safety and doesn’t tolerate any automated user information extraction for prohibited purposes. It includes phone numbers, display pictures, or statuses. 

6. Violating WhatsApp’s Service terms  

WhatsApp’s service terms prohibit users from indulging in many illegal activities, including life-threatening, racially offensive, etc. Signs of any such behaviors will lead to a permanent account ban. 

Wrapping up - Is WhatsApp Business Safe?

Now that we know all about WhatsApp Business safety, it’s time to make the most of WhatsApp marketing. Remember that customers love communicating through WhatsApp. 

Using a personalized communication approach will likely turn your current and potential customers into repeat buyers. However, avoid spamming your customers with unwanted messages and develop a lasting relationship. 

Struggling to get a WhatsApp strategy in place? 

Reach out to our WhatsApp communication experts for a demo today.