If someone tells you that your data will be analyzed without deciphering, would you believe him? We already know the answer. But still, technology works in mysterious ways. According to Yahoo Finance, the mighty Facebook is reportedly looking further for analyzing encrypted content, but it promises not to read it. The information reveals that the tech giant is looking for AI researchers to study the matter.
The upcoming research could mean that Facebook will be targeting ads based on the encrypted messages from WhatsApp. We’re talking about “homomorphic encryption”, which allows companies to read data even though it’s encrypted. The goal is to protect the info from cybersecurity threats and maintain privacy throughout the whole process. But not so fast, Facebook would say.
No homomorphic encryption for WhatsApp
Facebook declared for The Information that it’s too early for the company to consider homomorphic encryption in the case of WhatsApp.
Facebook acquired the instant messaging service in February 2014 for the astronomical amount of $16 billion. In other words, Facebook can do pretty much whatever it wants with WhatsApp.
Facebook also owns Instagram, the social network acquired by Zuckerberg’s platform in 2012 for “only” $1 billion. The two platforms are very much alike, but perhaps the popularity of Instagram is what made the officials of Facebook consider acquiring the social network.
What do you think? Do you like the idea of somebody else looking at your encrypted data? Are you satisfied with the services offered by Facebook and WhatsApp? Do you suspect Facebook of any unorthodox intentions? Would you consider using another social network in the near future? Feel free to tell us in a comment below!