WhatsApp Backups in Google Drive - Curious

[anandcoral]

I got email that, "Due to a new agreement between WhatsApp and Google, WhatsApp backups will no longer count against Google Drive storage quota."

Good news for many. I tried to look between lines why G is so generous. Found below text in the middle of webpage at "Backing up to Google Drive" https://faq.whatsapp.com/en/android/28000019/?category=5245251

"Important: Media and messages you back up aren't protected by WhatsApp end-to-end encryption while in Google Drive."

Though, I feel, it should have been the first line at top and highlighted. So now Facebook (the parent) and Google both can use the user data without any legal obligation.

Regards,

Anand

[Deozaan]

Was the data ever encrypted when backed up to Google Drive? Or is that part of this new deal where it doesn't use up the quota because Google can datamine it now?

[anandcoral]

Can't be sure of it. But we were always ensured of end-to-end encryption, whatsapp showed text to this effect prominently. So, I think this is new changes they have agreed to.

Giving user the carrot, to get the data.

Remember Gmail always prefers and request you to archive and not to delete !

Regards,

Anand

[4wd]

Same thing applies to Viber - backups to Google Drive are not encrypted.

I think it's so they can be restored to another device in the event the device that made the backup dies, (if the encryption uses device specific information).

[anandcoral]

Maybe. But my curious point is why hiding the most important text for 'non-encryption' in the the webpage, when drumming 'encryption' as the most important feature at the top.

Anyway, it is just for legality. They always have our data for all of their needs.

Regards,

Anand