HTexas Targets WhatsApp and Meta in New Lawsuit Over Encryption Promises
Texas has filed a new WhatsApp encryption lawsuit against Meta and its messaging platform. The state claims the companies misled users about how private their messages really are.
The lawsuit was filed by Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton in Harrison County court. According to the complaint, WhatsApp promised secure encrypted communication while allegedly allowing broader access to user data than consumers expected.
Meta strongly denied the accusations. The company said WhatsApp cannot read users’ encrypted messages.
Texas Questions WhatsApp Privacy Claims
Texas officials argue that WhatsApp markets itself as a highly secure platform. However, the lawsuit claims Meta may still access “virtually all” private communications on the app.
The case also references media reports and a whistleblower complaint submitted to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. In addition, the lawsuit points to a federal investigation connected to WhatsApp’s handling of user data.
Texas wants the court to stop Meta and WhatsApp from accessing Texans’ messages without permission. The state is also seeking financial penalties under the Texas Deceptive Trade Practices Act.
Meta Pushes Back Against Allegations
Meta spokesperson Andy Stone called the lawsuit false. He said WhatsApp’s end-to-end encryption prevents the company from viewing private conversations.
WhatsApp has long promoted encryption as one of its strongest privacy features. As a result, the lawsuit could raise new concerns among users about digital security and trust in messaging platforms.
This is not the first major privacy case filed by Texas. Previously, the state sued companies including Google and Netflix over data collection and consumer protection issues.
The legal battle may also increase pressure on tech firms to explain how user information is handled behind the scenes. Meanwhile, privacy experts say the case could shape future rules around encrypted messaging services in the United States.
