WhatsApp's help pages contained hidden instructions for its support chatbot to avoid recommending data protection authorities or regulators to users who could no longer delete their accounts.

The vulnerability or weakness

Not stated in the sources.

Earlier attacks and coverage

No earlier related attack in our archive yet.

Business impact

This issue could impact users' ability to seek legal advice and could harm WhatsApp's reputation for transparency and compliance with data protection laws.

Industries affected

Not stated in the sources.

Users affected

Users who could no longer delete their accounts and needed to contact data protection authorities or regulators were potentially affected, as the chatbot was instructed not to recommend these entities.

Sources