EU targets Meta over WhatsApp AI access restrictions

Help Net Security

February 9, 2026 at 1:45 PM

Overview

The European Commission is taking action against Meta, alleging that the company violated EU competition laws by restricting access to WhatsApp for third-party AI assistants. In a change announced on October 15, 2025, Meta updated its WhatsApp Business Solution Terms, effectively preventing outside AI programs from interacting with users on the platform. Since January 15, 2026, Meta's own AI assistant has been the only one allowed on WhatsApp. The Commission is planning to impose interim measures while investigating these practices. This situation raises concerns about competition and innovation in the AI space, as limiting access could stifle the development of alternative AI solutions that could benefit users.

Key Takeaways

Affected Systems: WhatsApp, Meta AI, third-party AI assistants
Timeline: Ongoing since January 2026

Original Article Summary

The European Commission believes Meta breached EU competition rules by blocking other AI assistants from accessing and interacting with users on WhatsApp. The case centers on a change Meta announced on 15 October 2025 to the WhatsApp Business Solution Terms. The update effectively blocked third-party, general-purpose AI assistants from operating on WhatsApp. Since 15 January 2026, Meta AI has been the only AI assistant available on the app. The Commission plans to impose interim measures … More → The post EU targets Meta over WhatsApp AI access restrictions appeared first on Help Net Security.

Impact

WhatsApp, Meta AI, third-party AI assistants

Exploitation Status

No active exploitation has been reported at this time. However, organizations should still apply patches promptly as proof-of-concept code may exist.

Timeline

Ongoing since January 2026

Remediation

Not specified

Additional Information

This threat intelligence is aggregated from trusted cybersecurity sources. For the most up-to-date information, technical details, and official vendor guidance, please refer to the original article linked below.

Related Topics: This incident relates to Update, Meta.

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