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WhatsApp Introduces 'Private Processing' for AI Features While Preserving User Privacy

The optional feature utilizes secure cloud infrastructure to enable AI-powered chat tools without compromising end-to-end encryption.

Overview

  • WhatsApp's new 'Private Processing' framework allows users to access AI features like chat summarization and writing suggestions while maintaining end-to-end encryption.
  • The system operates on Trusted Execution Environments (TEEs), ensuring data is processed securely and deleted immediately after use to prevent unauthorized access.
  • Private Processing is entirely opt-in, with users able to disable AI features in shared chats using the 'Advanced Chat Privacy' control.
  • Meta is inviting third-party audits, expanding its bug bounty program, and plans to open-source components of the technology for transparency and security verification.
  • Experts highlight potential risks, warning that off-device AI processing could create new attack surfaces despite Meta's safeguards.