Is WhatsApp putting your business at risk?

On February 3rd, 2025, Meta confirmed that WhatsApp had been targeted by a “sophisticated spyware hack attack”. While no businesses were targeted on this occasion, WhatsApp is a popular communications tool among SMEs and the attack raises important questions about the platform’s security.  

Here, Kristian Torode, Director and Co-Founder of business communication specialist Crystaline, explains why unified communications (UC) platforms offer a safer solution.

Launched in 2009 as a straightforward, user-friendly, ad- and cost-free platform, designed to allow people to easily connect, WhatsApp’s popularity has soared. In 2025, the app is set to surpass 3 billion monthly active users worldwide, with over 140 billion messages exchanged daily.

Among WhatsApp’s billions of users is a significant percentage of SMEs. A 2024 Vodafone study revealed that 45% of SMEs in the UK use WhatsApp as their primary communication platform.

The adoption of WhatsApp by SMEs is understandable. Its ease of use, with no need for training or significant investment, makes it an attractive option. Features like group chats, voice calls and file sharing enable employees to collaborate effortlessly. Furthermore, the introduction of WhatsApp Business in 2018, with additional features such as automated messaging, business profiles and quick replies, further reinforces its appeal for professional use.

However, while WhatsApp may offer convenience, relying on it as a primary communication platform exposes businesses to serious data privacy, security and compliance risks.

WhatsApp’s hidden risks

WhatsApp does offer end-to-end encryption, which protects messages during transmission, making it harder for them to be intercepted. However, despite this protection, several vulnerabilities still exist.

For example, backups stored on Cloud services may not be encrypted, leaving them exposed to potential breaches. Moreover, as a part of the Meta ecosystem, WhatsApp faces third-party risks. It is estimated that mobile phishing and social engineering attacks through messaging platforms like WhatsApp increased by 18% in 2024.  

On top of these security concerns, there are significant compliance challenges. WhatsApp is not built to meet the stringent requirements of data protection regulations such as General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR).

It lacks essential safeguarding for secure data storage, managing consent and preventing unauthorised data transfers outside the EU. This puts businesses at serious risk of non-compliance. The UK Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) has reported that the average cost of a data breach is £3 million, with fines, legal costs, business downtime, reputational damage and  potentially lost opportunities.

A smarter, safer alternative

Unlike standalone messaging apps, UC platforms are purpose-built to address the demands of professional communication.

UC platforms provide the same core functionalities as WhatsApp including voice, video, messaging and file sharing, as well as end-to-end encryption but addresses its limitations with advanced security features.

These include secure data sharing, centralised management, real-time threat monitoring and built-in tools for archiving, auditing and consent management. Such capabilities allow businesses to mitigate risks swiftly, prevent unauthorised access or breaches and ensure compliance with GDPR and other industry-specific regulations.

One such platform is Vodafone Business UC with RingCentral, which integrates Vodafone’s global connectivity with RingCentral’s cutting-edge cloud communications technology. This solution offers businesses a secure, scalable and professional-grade alternative to WhatsApp. Its enterprise-grade security ensures full compliance with international regulations like GDPR, while seamless integration with tools such as Microsoft 365 and Google Workspace enables team to collaborate efficiently without compromising data control.

Vodafone Business UC is designed specifically for business use, offering features that go beyond basic messaging. Advanced analytics, AI-powered meeting tools and a unified interface for managing communication channels empowers SMEs to enhance workflows and boost productivity.

As a Vodafone Advanced Partner, Crystaline specialises in helping SMEs transition to secure, scalable communication platforms. From conducting comprehensive system audits to delivering tailored Unified Communications packages, Crystaline ensures businesses can operate securely and efficiently in today’s digital landscape.

Relying on WhatsApp for business communication puts SMEs at risk of security breaches, compliance failures and operational inefficiencies. UC platforms provide a secure, scalable and regulation-compliant alternative, enabling businesses to collaborate effectively without compromising data protection. Choosing a UC platform ensures not only convenience but also robust data security, regulatory compliance and optimised communication for long-term success.