Therefore, it is recommended to avoid sharing private information with these chatbots.

Why aren’t third-party AI chats end-to-end encrypted?

WhatsApp has recently added the ability to add third-party AI tools developed by outside developers. These AI assistants can effectively be linked to your WhatsApp account.

However, the chats will not be private in the same way.

Whilst messages sent to third-party AI tools will be securely encrypted using Signal, they will be processed using a tool provided by Meta on behalf of the third-party developer.

Since messages won't be sent directly between the user and the third-party, they won't be considered as end-to-end encrypted.

This is because secure message sending is not the same as end-to-end encryption.

What Data Can Third-Party AI Tools Access?

WhatsApp have confirmed that third-party AI tools can only access data that you choose to share with them.

They won't automatically access all of your personal chats, contacts or media.

Each third-party AI tool will have their own individual chat so that the AI isn't able to access your whole WhatsApp account. You can also delete any linked AI tools from within your WhatsApp settings.

However, you should always know who is running the service and what they might do with the data you are sharing with them before linking an external AI assistant.

What Should You Avoid Sharing With AI On WhatsApp?

With the popularity of using AI assistants, there are some key things to consider when using messaging platforms.

Avoid sharing;

• Banking passwords, OTPs & financial details
• Confidential documents for your business
• Personal ID documents (if possible)

Check the privacy policy of the third-party AI tool

Only use AI assistants for information that you wouldn't need to share any sensitive personal information with.

Delete any third-party AI tools you aren't using anymore.

This can help keep your information more private whilst still taking advantage of AI tools.

Can You Delete Chats With AI On WhatsApp?

You can delete your chats with Meta AI on WhatsApp. However, the company do warn that generative AI can sometimes return inappropriate or incorrect information.

You can also disconnect third-party AI tools from your account via your WhatsApp settings. However, you will also want to check what their policies are regarding storing and deleting data.

WhatsApp Privacy – Personal Chats vs AI Chats

The main differences are;

• Personal Chats – End-to-end encrypted.
• Meta AI – The AI can process messages you directly send it. This shouldn't be treated like a personal conversation with a friend.
• Third-Party AI – Messages will be securely sent but won't be considered end-to-end encrypted by WhatsApp as they are processed through Meta.

This doesn't mean the AI can automatically see all of your personal chats. Normal personal messages will still be kept safe.