A former WhatsApp security head, Attaullah Baig, has filed a federal lawsuit against Meta, claiming the company violated data security rules and retaliated against him for reporting the issues. Baig worked as head of security at WhatsApp from 2021 to 2025 and says around 1,500 engineers had unrestricted access to user data, potentially breaking a 2020 U.S. government order.
Meta Accused of Failing WhatsApp Cybersecurity
The lawsuit states that Meta did not implement basic cybersecurity measures. Baig discovered that WhatsApp engineers could access or steal user data — including contacts, IP addresses, and profile photos — without detection or audit trails.
WhatsApp User Data at Risk
Baig’s complaint also claims Meta blocked security updates meant to prevent account takeovers, affecting nearly 100,000 WhatsApp users daily. The company allegedly prioritized user growth over privacy.
Retaliation Claims Against Meta Executives
Baig raised his concerns with WhatsApp CEO Will Cathcart and Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg, but faced escalating retaliation. This included poor performance reviews, verbal warnings, and termination in February 2025.
Meta Denies Data Breach Allegations
Meta strongly denied the claims. WhatsApp’s VP Carl Woog said Baig was fired for poor performance, and the Department of Labor found no retaliation. Meta maintains that user privacy and cybersecurity remain a top priority.
Broader Concerns Over Meta’s Data Privacy
The case adds to scrutiny over Meta’s data protection across WhatsApp, Facebook, and Instagram. The 2020 Cambridge Analytica settlement still holds until 2040, following misuse of 50 million users’ data.
Legal Demands From WhatsApp Security Head
Baig is seeking reinstatement, back pay, and damages, along with regulatory action against Meta for failing to protect user data.
Read More: How to Recover Removed WhatsApp Messages
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